To: Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Steve Madrone
Agenda Section: Initiated by Board Member
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:title
Letter of Support for California Assembly Bill 2494, As Amended, (Rogers) State Forests: Forest Management end
RECOMMENDATION(S):Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Authorize the Chair of the Board to sign the attached letter of support regarding California Assembly Bill 2494.
Body
STRATEGIC PLAN:
The recommended action supports the following areas of the Board of Supervisors’ Strategic Plan:
Area of Focus: Sustainable Natural Resources & Infrastructure Stewardship
Strategic Plan Category: 9999 - Core Services/Other
DISCUSSION:
The letter of support states that healthy forests and rivers are deeply interconnected, and forest management decisions directly influence water temperature, sediment levels and streamflow-conditions critical for the survival of California’s native salmon and steelhead. California Assembly Bill 2494, introduced by Assembly member Chris Rodgers, strengthens the management of state demonstration forests by prioritizing ecological restoration, biodiversity and climate resilience, ensuring healthier watersheds. It also reinforces the role of these forests as living laboratories for research and sustainable land management, where improving forest structure, reducing wildfire risk and protecting headwaters can benefit both cold-water fisheries and downstream communities.
These forests contain essential headwaters and tributaries that support some of California’s most important salmon and steelhead populations, such as coho salmon in the South Fork Noyo River and key habitats within Soquel Creek. California Assembly Bill 2494 aligns with broader conservation efforts like the 30x30 initiative by advancing long-term ecosystem protection and incorporating tribal co-governance and traditional ecological knowledge. At the same time, it promotes a restoration-based rural economy, creating stable jobs while enhancing ecological health for local communities, fisheries and water users.
This bill is being coauthored by Assemblymembers Damon Connolly and Rick Zbur, and Senator Mike McGuire.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
General Fund
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There are no direct costs associated with sending the attached letter of support. As a result, the recommended action will not impact the Humboldt County General Fund.
STAFFING IMPACT:
Sending the attached letter of support will not impact current staffing levels.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None
ALTERNATIVES TO STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
Board discretion.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Letter of Support Regarding California AB 2494
2. California Assembly Bill 2494 - As Amended March 25
3. Fact Sheet Regarding California AB 2494
4. Assembly Committee Analyses of AB 2494
PREVIOUS ACTION/REFERRAL:
Meeting of: None
File No.: None