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Bill

Bill

SR 480

Georgia Forests; acute and ongoing threat to Georgia's forests posed by the southern pine beetle; recognize

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Anavitarte and 5 co-sponsors

Senate Resolution 480 urges Georgia landowners to combat the southern pine beetle threat through best practices, protecting forests vital for the economy and environment.

Senate Passed/Adopted
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Bill Summary · SR 480

Summary of Senate Resolution 480 (SR 480)

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: SR 480
  • Title: Georgia Forests; acute and ongoing threat to Georgia's forests posed by the southern pine beetle; recognize
  • Status: Senate Read and Referred
  • Introduced: March 27, 2025
  • Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

Senate Resolution 480 aims to formally recognize the significant threat posed by the southern pine beetle to Georgia's forests, particularly in the western region of the state. The resolution encourages landowners to follow guidance from the Georgia Forestry Commission to mitigate the spread of this destructive pest.

Key Provisions

  1. Recognition of Threat: The resolution acknowledges the acute and ongoing challenge of southern pine beetle infestations, which can lead to severe tree mortality, economic losses for landowners, increased wildfire risks, and diminished forest health.

  2. Economic Importance: It highlights the forestry sector as a crucial economic driver in Georgia, contributing over $41 billion annually and supporting numerous jobs in rural areas.

  3. Encouragement of Best Practices: The resolution encourages Georgia landowners to implement effective forestry management practices, such as:

    • Thinning overcrowded stands
    • Removing infested trees
    • Following best management practices as recommended by the Georgia Forestry Commission
  4. Public Awareness: The resolution authorizes the Secretary of the Senate to distribute copies of the resolution to the public and the press, aiming to raise awareness about the issue.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The resolution primarily impacts landowners in Georgia, particularly those in the western region where the southern pine beetle outbreak is most severe. It also affects the broader forestry industry and rural communities that rely on healthy forest ecosystems for economic stability.

  • Environmental and Economic Benefits: By promoting sound forestry practices, the resolution seeks to enhance forest resilience, improve ecological health, and sustain the economic benefits derived from Georgia's forests.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:
    • March 27, 2025: Introduced and placed in the Senate Hopper.
    • March 28, 2025: Read and referred to the appropriate Senate committee for further consideration.

In summary, SR 480 serves as a call to action for Georgia landowners and stakeholders to address the pressing threat of the southern pine beetle through proactive forest management and adherence to best practices, thereby safeguarding the state's valuable forest resources.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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