Act No. 21

(S.94)

Conservation; department of forests, parks and recreation; licensing state forest land for maple sugar production

This act requires the department of forests, parks and recreation to issue licenses for the use of state forest land for the tapping of maple trees, the collection of maple sap, and the transportation of sap to a processing facility. The licenses shall be issued and tapping conducted pursuant to guidelines developed by the department of forests, parks and recreation and the Vermont sugar makers' association. A maple advisory board is also created to provide the commissioner of forests, parks and recreation with guidance on issuing licenses, including identification of potential state forest land suitable for license. There shall be an annual license fee imposed on the taps installed in a licensed area. On or before January 15, 2010, the commissioner of forests, parks and recreation shall report to the general assembly regarding implementation of the licensing program.

Date Signed by the Governor: May 14, 2009

Effective Date: July 1, 2009