We’re excited to support the reintroduction of the Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act (H.R. 9602) by Representatives John Garamendi and Ken Calvert. This bipartisan bill strengthens public-private partnerships for forest conservation by allowing accredited nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements acquired under the Forest Legacy Program. This change will reduce administrative burdens on states, making it easier for them to collaborate with private landowners while maintaining their stewardship responsibilities. The bill also includes critical provisions, such as enabling the transfer of federally held easements to other states and reinforcing eligibility requirements for land trusts. By expanding the flexibility of the Forest Legacy Program, this legislation will help conserve working forests, support rural economies, and reduce wildfire risks—offering a commonsense, no-cost solution to protect vital forestlands for future generations.
Read the press release here.
Read the FAQ here.
Read our latest coverage of the bill here.
Read the full legislation here.
