This bill establishes a comprehensive ticketing system to track timber from harvesting to production, thereby creating a chain of custody. It introduces a new subdivision to RSA 227-J, defining key terms such as "change of land use," "designated agent," and "harvester." The bill mandates that all parties involved in timber harvesting must sign a notice of intent to cut, and it outlines requirements for large clearcut reviews, erosion control certifications, and specific regulations for harvesting in protected areas. Certain activities, like the removal of single trees for personal use, are exempt from these requirements. Additionally, RSA 227-J:15 is amended to enhance the definition of "scale slip" by requiring documentation of the delivery company, landowner or representative, lot number, and address.

The bill also proposes a new certification and training program within the Department of Environmental Services, necessitating the addition of two Environmental Scientist positions starting January 1, 2027, with estimated costs of $128,000 for FY 2027, $230,000 for FY 2028, and $240,000 for FY 2029, funded through the Water Resources Fund. However, the Department has indicated that there is no fee authorized to support this program, nor are there existing fees to be replaced. Furthermore, the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources anticipates increased expenditures for reviewing timber harvest plans, requiring two full-time Forester positions with projected costs of $220,000 for FY 2027, $198,000 for FY 2028, and $202,000 for FY 2029, which would need to be included in future budget requests as the bill does not provide funding or authorize these positions. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 227-J:15
HB1752 text: 227-J:15