36-2-108. Appointment of state forester; qualifications; duties.

(a) The state board of land commissioners shall appoint a state forester who shall be the administrative head of the Wyoming state forestry division of the office of state lands and investments. He shall serve at the pleasure of the board. He shall have a bachelor's degree in forestry with not less than four (4) years experience in professional forestry work. The state forester shall, under the general supervision of the board, have direction of all forest interest and all matters pertaining to forestry within the jurisdiction of the state of Wyoming; and may, with approval of the board, appoint such assistants and employees as are necessary in executing the duties of his office.

(b) The state forester shall:

(i) Take such action as may be deemed necessary by the state board of land commissioners to protect forest, range and other rural resources from fire. This responsibility shall in no way diminish the responsibility or authority of local fire protection districts;

(ii) Assist the county sheriff in the enforcement of all laws pertaining to the protection of forest and range lands from fire;

(iii) Collect data relative to forest conditions;

(iv) Prepare an annual report on the progress and condition of state forestry work;

(v) Recommend plans for improving the state system of forest protection, management and replacement;

(vi) Whenever it is deemed essential and to the best interest of the state, cooperate with counties, cities, towns, corporations, or individuals for the protection, management and planting of trees, woodlots and timber tracts;

(vii) Promote the development of the forest industry;

(viii) Cooperate with federal agencies to fulfill the intent of this section.