Louisiana Senate Bill SB127

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/11
• Refer: 4/25/11

Caption

Authorizes the transfer of certain state property. (gov sig)

Impact

The passage of SB127 would facilitate an exchange that is expected to streamline land management for the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The authorized transfer could potentially enhance conservation efforts and improve recreational access to wildlife habitats in the state. Furthermore, this bill highlights a strategic move to optimize state properties while ensuring that essential resources remain protected and well-managed.

Summary

Senate Bill 127, introduced by Senator McPherson, seeks to authorize the transfer of specific state-owned land in Catahoula Parish to Avahoula Resources, LLC. This legislation outlines the conditions under which the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, along with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission, may convey their interest in the property identified as the dried beds of Larto Lake. In exchange, the state will accept another tract of land of equal or greater value situated above the ordinary high water mark, which was defined back to its 1812 conditions.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB127 appears to be supportive among stakeholders interested in wildlife conservation and land management. Advocates argue that such transactions help to better align land uses with ecological priorities. However, concerns may arise regarding the handling of mineral rights, which are not included in the property transfer, illustrating a complex balancing act between development interests and environmental stewardship.

Contention

While the bill has not faced significant opposition, some advocacy groups may express apprehension about land transfers and their impacts on local ecosystems. The absence of mineral rights in the exchange could be a point of contention for future negotiations involving natural resource extraction. Ultimately, SB127 raises important discussions about land use, state resource management and the implications of such exchanges on local communities and habitats.