This bill aims to enhance regional, conservation, and energy resource planning by incorporating habitat strongholds and wildlife corridors into existing legal frameworks. It amends several sections of the RSA (Revised Statutes Annotated) to include definitions and considerations for habitat strongholds and wildlife corridors, specifically referencing them in the context of conservation commissions and regional planning commissions. For instance, RSA 36-A:2 is amended to require conservation commissions to maintain an index of open spaces that includes these areas, while RSA 36:45 and RSA 36:47 are updated to ensure that regional planning commissions consider habitat strongholds and wildlife corridors in their planning and development efforts.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that mandate the executive director of the fish and game commission to consult with various agencies regarding habitat strongholds and wildlife corridors, ensuring a collaborative approach to conservation efforts. The bill also emphasizes the importance of land conservation and the proper utilization of natural resources, thereby promoting the health and welfare of the region's inhabitants. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 36-A:2, 36:45, 36:47, 36:55, 206:10
SB592 text: 36-A:2, 36:45, 36:47, 36:55, 206:10