Wabeno Economic Development Act
Description
This bill would require the sale of 14 acres of national forest land in Wisconsin and a review of federal mineral permitting processes.
Summary
What it does
This bill would require the Forest Service to sell approximately 14 acres of land and mineral rights within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony's Wabeno Redi-Mix, LLC, at market value. The sale would be contingent on the buyer paying for the land and all associated costs within 180 days of an approved federal appraisal. Additionally, the Department of the Interior would be required to publish a comprehensive review of federal permitting processes for developing stone, sand, and gravel on federal lands.
Who is affected
This bill directly affects Tony's Wabeno Redi-Mix, LLC, which would be permitted to purchase approximately 14 acres of federal land and mineral rights within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service and the Department of the Interior are also affected, as they are required to conduct land appraisals, manage the conveyance process, and publish a review of federal permitting for stone, sand, and gravel development.
Key provisions
- Conveyance of federal land in Wisconsin. The Forest Service is required to transfer approximately 14 acres of federal land and mineral rights within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to Tony's Wabeno Redi-Mix, LLC.
- Appraisal and purchase requirements. The land must be sold at market value as determined by a Forest Service appraisal, with the buyer responsible for all associated costs and submitting an offer within 180 days of the appraisal's approval.
- Review of federal permitting for mineral materials. The Department of the Interior must publish a comprehensive review regarding federal permitting processes for the development of sand, stone, and gravel on federal lands.
Fiscal impact
Not applicable: No CBO cost estimate available
Effective dates
The land conveyance is contingent upon the Forest Service receiving an offer to purchase the land within 180 days after the federal approval of a market value appraisal.
Relationship to existing law
The bill modifies the management of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest by requiring the Forest Service to convey specific federal land and mineral rights to a private entity. It also mandates a Department of the Interior review of existing federal permitting processes for the development of stone, sand, and gravel on federal lands.
Stated purpose
The bill aims to facilitate the transfer of approximately 14 acres of federal land within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to a private entity for market value and requires a comprehensive review of federal permitting processes for the development of stone, sand, and gravel on federal lands.