1. The current condition, quantity and geographic distribution of mature maple trees in this State;

2. A determination as to the rate at which mature maple trees are being cut and have been cut in the past 10 years;

3. The current and future need for mature maple trees by the maple syrup industry; and

4. Strategies to ensure an adequate number of mature maple trees for the maple syrup industry in the future.

The Maine Forest Service shall report its findings to the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry no later than December 1, 1999.

SUMMARY

This resolve requires the Department of Conservation, Maine Forest Service to examine the issue of the excessive cutting of mature maple trees and report to the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry no later than December 1, 1999.