The bill aims to enhance reforestation efforts in Washington State following significant forest disturbances, such as wildfires and other natural disasters. It recognizes the increasing frequency of catastrophic wildfires due to climate change, which not only devastates forest ecosystems but also releases stored carbon, exacerbating climate issues. To address this, the bill proposes a state-level reforestation initiative that aligns with the federal REPLANT Act, emphasizing the need for climate-informed reforestation to restore forest health, sequester carbon, and improve biodiversity. The legislature acknowledges the necessity of providing additional funding to expedite the replanting of burned forestlands across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

To facilitate this initiative, the bill introduces a new reforestation grant program administered by the department, contingent on available appropriations. The program will incentivize and support climate-informed reforestation efforts after large-scale disturbances. It outlines specific criteria for grant eligibility, including cost-sharing arrangements, applicant qualifications, and prioritization of direct reforestation efforts. The program aims to ensure that projects are not legally mandated and considers environmental justice assessments, while also limiting the program's size to the appropriated funds.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.65.270