§1–406.

    (a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

        (2)    “Old–growth forest” means a forest:

            (i)    At least 5 acres in size with a preponderance of old trees, of which the oldest exceed at least half the projected maximum attainable age for the species; and

            (ii)    That exhibits several of the following characteristics:

                1.    Shade–tolerant species are present in all age and size classes;

                2.    Randomly distributed canopy gaps are present;

                3.    A high degree of structural diversity characterized by multiple growth layers reflecting a broad spectrum of ages is present;

                4.    An accumulation of dead wood of varying sizes and stages of decomposition accompanied by decadence in live dominant trees is present; and

                5.    Pit and mound topography can be observed.

        (3)    “State conservation land” means:

            (i)    State parks;

            (ii)    Wildlife management areas; and

            (iii)    Natural resources management areas.

    (b)    Whenever the Department identifies an old–growth forest on State conservation land, the land shall be managed in a manner that prohibits logging.

    (c)    Nothing in this section may be interpreted to prohibit the Department from taking actions to protect old–growth forest from fire, animals, insects, disease, and erosion in a manner that has minimal adverse effects on the ecosystem and subject to conditions the Secretary considers necessary.