AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee voted to advance legislation on Monday sponsored by Rep. Michael Brennan, D-Portland, that would provide ongoing funding over the next two years to help towns meet their ash tree conservation needs.
Maine's ash tree population, with the exception of the mountain ash, has been subjected to disease and death due to the spreading of the invasive emerald ash borer, a beetle native to northeastern Asia that feeds on ash species.
"The emerald ash borer is causing immense damage to our forests in Maine, posing major threats to our environment and our economy," said Brennan. "Our forests provide more than recreation for our residents and visitors to our state, they provide jobs that support our heritage industries and crucial shelter and food for Maines wildlife. By investing in conservation now, we can put a stop to future devastation to our ash trees."
LD 1162 would provide $1.1 million over the next two years to help meet conservation needs. It would also provide funding for a full-time, permanent entomologist position in the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to provide technical and educational assistance to municipalities to address forest pests and diseases beginning in June 2024.
The bill faces additional votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Brennan is serving his third consecutive term in the Maine House, having previously served four terms in the House and three in the Senate. He represents House District 115, which includes a portion of Portland, and serves as House chair of the Legislature's Education and Cultural Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Brennan], 305-965-2744