Insider Tactic Endangers Historic Public Land Purchase |
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News |
Written by Jeff Smith, State Senator District 31 |
Thursday, 12 January 2023 16:57 |
http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/forest-conserve-s451.png MADISON – Senator Jeff Smith (D–Brunswick) condemned obstructive maneuvers by Republican members of the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) to block the largest land conservation effort in state history by employing underhanded procedural gambits to avoid even discussing the issue. The funding, $4 million from the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, would be allocated to the Department of Natural Resources to purchase working forest conservation easements that protect northern Wisconsin’s Pelican River Forest for future sustainable recreational and commercial uses. This funding would supplement $11,384,000 already secured for the project. The land would then be re-sold in small parcels to private owners who agree to maintain public access and use sustainable forest management practices.
Western Wisconsin has also seen anonymous objectors jeopardize land purchases in the past. The 1,000 acre Tyrone Purchase on the Lower Chippewa River started in 2016 and the option to buy needed to be extended three times to finally get it done in 2018. During the process the Joint Finance Committee Chair, Alberta Darling (R–River Hills) said they “would not schedule a hearing on the land sale ‘at this time’ because ‘an objection has been raised to the request.’”
“This project will be a boon to hunters, anglers, conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts,” continued Smith. “Future commercial development of these properties should be done responsibly and sustainably. I call on the Joint Finance Committee to schedule and hold a hearing to approve this funding now so future generations of Wisconsinites can continue to hunt, fish and hike our forests.” ### The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties. |
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