The bill establishes a new Forest Health Grant Program in Wyoming, which will be administered by the state forester. This program aims to support forest health projects by providing grants that cover up to 75% of eligible project costs. Projects must be conducted on state, local government, or private land and should enhance water yield or quality, reduce wildfire risks, increase forest product production, improve wildlife and livestock habitats, or serve other public interests as determined by the state forester. Additionally, grants will require the attorney general's written opinion to certify their legality.
An account for the Forest Health Grant Program is created to manage the funds designated for this purpose, which includes a $3 million appropriation from the general fund. The bill stipulates that any unobligated funds remaining in the account by July 1, 2030, will be returned to the original donors or revert to the general fund, depending on the source of the funds. The state forester is also required to report annually on the grants awarded, and the program is set to sunset on July 1, 2030. The act will take effect on July 1, 2026.