Logging program pilot credited with improving water-quality compliance; sponsors seek continued funding

A contractor implementing Slow Camp and officials from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation told the Senate Natural Resources & Energy Committee on April 3 that the pilot has helped loggers install water-quality practices that reduce runoff and keep logging work compliant with state standards, but that additional funding is needed to continue the program.

The contractor, introduced to the committee as Mr. Geran, told members the program began after the FY25 budget appropriated $1 million. "About $750,000 of that is reserved for contractors for implementation of practices," he said, describing a reimbursement model that pays 75% on contract and withholds 25% until field verification by foresters. He said his organization serves as the program administrator under contract with FPR and that as of the hearing about $200,000 in Slow Camp money remained and would likely be committed by June.

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