(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.