There is in the Natural Resources Agency the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which is created as a state agency to do all of the following, working in collaboration and cooperation with local governments and interested parties:

(a) Provide increased opportunities for tourism and recreation.

(b) Protect, conserve, and restore the region’s physical, cultural, archaeological, historical, and living resources.

(c) Aid in the preservation of working landscapes.

(d) Reduce the risk of natural disasters, such as wildfires.

(e) Protect and improve water and air quality.

(f) Assist the regional economy through the operation of the conservancy’s program.

(g) Identify the highest priority projects and initiatives for which funding is needed.

(h) Undertake efforts to enhance public use and enjoyment of lands owned by the public.

(i) Support efforts that advance both environmental preservation and the economic well-being of Sierra residents in a complementary manner.

(j) Support efforts that advance climate resilience and equity.

(Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 70, Sec. 3. (SB 39) Effective January 1, 2024.)