Forest practices: timber harvesting plan.

The Z'Berg-Nejedly Forest Practice Act of 1973 prohibits a person from conducting timber operations unless a timber harvesting plan prepared by a registered professional forester has been submitted to the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The Forest Practice Act of 1973 provides that the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection has the final authority to determine whether a timber harvesting plan conforms with rules and regulations pertaining to timber harvesting. This bill would require the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency to convene a timber harvest working group to consider how to improve the health of California's forests, continuing California's commitment to the environment, and supporting the state's climate and energy goals. The working group would be composed of representatives from environmental organizations and the timber industry, and the chairperson and vice chairperson of certain legislative committees. The bill would authorize the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency to designate one or more individuals representing the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Department of Fish and Game, the California Coastal Commission, the California Geological Survey, and the State Water Resources Control Board to serve on the working group. The bill would require the working group, on or before June 1, 2013, to report its recommendations to the Legislature.