FIFTY-NINTH WYOMING LEGISLATURE

APPROVED INTERIM COMMITTEE STUDIES

2008 INTERIM

  

JOINT AGRICULTURE, STATE AND PUBLIC LANDS AND WATER  RESOURCES INTERIM COMMITTEE

 

Standard Budget:                 $25,000

 

Priority # 1         Water and Water Management

 

The Committee will continue its study of state water issues and address the need for water management.  The Committee will consider coalbed methane discharges and its effects to agricultural lands.  The Committee will continue its study of state water resources, including management of streams and rivers, updates and conditions of irrigation systems, the effects of subdivision laws on irrigation districts, reservoir enlargements and water conservation measures.

 

Priority # 2         Agency Issues.

 

(a.)  Department of Agriculture.  The Committee will continue its review of current law in several areas, including weights and measures, fuel quality and blends, pesticides, fertilizers, damage from prairie dogs, cottage food industry, value added to agricultural products, sustainable agriculture and unfair trade practices.  The Committee will consider what changes are necessary to protect agricultural producers and to update current laws. 

 

(b.)  State Forestry.  The Committee will consider the statewide assessment and look at timber issues in the various areas of the State.  The Committee will review rural fire responses and its effects on agricultural property.

 

(c.)  Livestock Board.  The Committee will review and consider animal welfare statues and consider disease outbreak response and notification systems. 

 

(d.)  The Committee will address issues from other agencies as necessary that routinely come before the Committee, such as the State Engineer or State Lands.

 

Tentative Meeting Schedule.

 

The Committee anticipates 2 two-day meetings with a separate 1-day meeting if necessary.  The first meeting will be held April 28 and 29 in Saratoga and the second 2-day meeting to be held in September or October in Green River.  Part of each meeting may include a field trip to acquaint the Committee with various issues the Committee is considering.