Providing for a buffer strip program and fund, and making appropriations

GENERAL.1), which establishes a number of programs to assess and reduce sources of contaminants in surface water sources. BILL’S PROVISIONS —— BUFFER STRIP PROGRAM. The bill establishes a buffer strip program (program) administered by the division of soil conservation and water quality of the department of agriculture and land stewardship (division). The bill authorizes the division to enter into agreements with participating landowners on a cost-share basis in which land is enrolled for purposes of establishing buffer strips adjacent to waterways according to criteria established by the division. The department is required to design a sign for display by landowners participating in the program. The program is financed on a cost-share basis with landowners, which may include compensation for moneys forgone by landowners when agreeing to enroll the land. BILL’S PROVISIONS —— FUNDING. The bill creates a buffer strip program fund (fund) under the division’s management and control to finance the program. The bill appropriates $5 million from the general fund to the fund each fiscal year.