This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically section 273.13, subdivision 23, to clarify the eligibility criteria for class 2c managed forest lands classification. The amendment specifies that class 2c managed forest land must consist of no less than 20 and no more than 1,920 acres per taxpayer, and it must be managed under a forest management plan that aligns with the resource management incentive program. The classification rate for this land is set at 0.65 percent of market value. Additionally, property owners must apply to the assessor to qualify for this reduced rate, providing necessary information for verification. If the application is submitted before May 1, the property qualifies for that assessment year; otherwise, it may qualify for the following year.

The bill also removes the previous requirement that the forest management plan must meet the criteria of chapter 290C, while introducing a definition for "forest management plan" as one prepared by an approved plan writer. This change aims to streamline the process for property owners seeking to classify their land as managed forest, ensuring that the classification is accessible while maintaining the necessary oversight from the commissioner of natural resources, who must concur with the land's qualification. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the clarity and efficiency of the classification process for managed forest lands in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 273.13