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Subcommittee weighs HB 72 to create edible-forest foraging pilot; members press for limits, liability and DNR input
Summary
The Natural Resources and Open Spaces Subcommittee discussed HB 72, which would authorize the Department of Natural Resources to establish a permitting program and cultivate edible forests on state land as a three-year pilot in two designated areas. Lawmakers asked for clearer limits on area size, enforcement plans, liability protections and funding before moving forward.
The Natural Resources and Open Spaces Subcommittee on the Environment and Transportation Committee discussed House Bill 72 on the proposal to create an edible-forest and foraging program on state land, but took no votes.
Kristen, a committee staff presenter, told members the bill would establish a permitting program for foraging on state-owned lands, require DNR, subject to available funding, to establish and maintain edible forests on state-owned lands, and create a nonlapsing fund to support the program. She said the sponsor is working with the Department of Natural Resources on amendments that would narrow the proposal to a three-year pilot in two…
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