NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Department of Environment

Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

Public Regulation Commission

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 58 appropriates $69.0 from the general fund to the middle Rio Grande Conservancy District (MRGCD) for the purpose of developing a cooperative fire prevention program for the Middle Rio Grande Bosque. Previous discussions indicate the work will be performed with two crews from the Inmate Work Camp (IWC) Program operated by the Forestry Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD).

Significant Issues

Wildfires in the Bosque are a problem because of the encroachment of non-native species such as salt cedar, introduced to reduce erosion. The salt cedar is highly flammable in the spring and thrives after being burned. The Bosque fires represent increasing threats to domestic dwellings near the river.

The EMNRD has a joint powers agreement with the MRGCD, the principle landowner of the Middle Rio Grande Bosque. Approved project plans can be created that identify the location and nature of cooperative fire prevention work. According to EMNRD, SB 58 could assist in fire suppression possibilities since inmate crews could be working in the Bosque area year-round. Coordination of the project work would include consultation with various Bosque management entities and would entail plan review and demonstration projects.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

According to EMNRD, the $69.0 appropriation would pay the costs of two crews of twelve inmates each for a year.

RP/sb