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HB 759

Highland Wildlife Management Area; Dept. of Wildlife Resources to convey a non-exclusive easement.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Runion

Virginia allows its wildlife agency to grant non-exclusive easement rights on Highland Wildlife Management Area land, affecting public access and conservation priorities.

Reported from Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources (22-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 759

Legislative bill overview

HB 759 authorizes the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources to convey a non-exclusive easement on property within the Highland Wildlife Management Area. The bill enables the state to grant rights to use or access this publicly-managed wildlife land while retaining ownership and primary control of the property.

Why is this important

Wildlife management areas serve critical functions for habitat conservation, public recreation, and species protection. Easement decisions affect how state lands are used and who gains access rights, potentially impacting hunting, fishing, conservation priorities, and revenue generation for wildlife management programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of specificity: The bill text doesn't clarify what entity receives the easement, what activities it permits, or what compensation (if any) the state receives
  • Public access concerns: Granting easements could restrict public hunting, fishing, or recreational access to what is publicly-owned wildlife habitat
  • Conservation trade-offs: Non-exclusive easements might allow incompatible uses that conflict with wildlife management objectives or habitat protection goals

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

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