Arkansas Senate Bill SB85

Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/21/25
• Failed: 5/5/25

Caption

To Preserve Public Property; And To Preserve Timber At The Pine Tree Research Station.

Impact

If enacted, SB85 would ensure that the Pine Tree Research Station is preserved in its current state by preventing any commercial exploitation of timber resources. The bill allows for the management of timber for wildlife purposes but requires prior review of any related contracts by the Senate and House Committees on Agriculture, Forestry, and Economic Development. This oversight aims to balance ecological considerations with the need for wildlife management strategies, suggesting that the government is seeking to take a proactive role in both conservation and natural resource management.

Summary

Senate Bill 85, titled 'To Preserve Public Property; And To Preserve Timber At The Pine Tree Research Station', aims to protect public lands and forests located at the Pine Tree Research Station in St. Francis County, Arkansas. The bill prohibits the commercial harvesting of timber on this property, which was acquired by the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees from the United States Forest Service in 1978. This legislative move underscores the state's commitment to conserving natural resources and maintaining the integrity of important research facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB85 may arise regarding the implications of restricting timber harvesting. Stakeholders, including those in the forestry industry, might argue against the prohibition of sustainable timber practices that could benefit economic development in the area. On the other hand, conservation advocates will likely support the bill, prioritizing the importance of preserving ecological functions and maintaining biodiversity within public lands. Thus, discussions may center on the trade-off between resource use and conservation efforts within state policies.