Bill H.70 proposes to amend the definition of "conserved land" to include land enrolled in the Use Value Appraisal Program as part of the conserved land inventory in Vermont. Specifically, it adds language to the definition of "natural resource management area" to encompass agricultural land or forestland that is part of this program. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "conserved" by removing the term "permanently protected" and clarifying that it can also include other long-term land protection mechanisms that align with Vermont Conservation Design goals.
The bill also establishes an effective date of July 1, 2025, for these changes to take effect. This legislation aims to enhance community resiliency and biodiversity protection by recognizing the importance of land enrolled in the Use Value Appraisal Program in contributing to Vermont's conservation goals.
Statutes affected: As Introduced: 10-2801