Exchanges/Sales
Commissioner Lyons believes that pro-business policies are compatible with conservation efforts. Working with federal, state, and local-level governments, as well as private landowners, the comissioner identifies stae trust lands that have new potential for residential, commercial, industrial, or recreational and open space development.
In November, Commissioner Lyons reorganized the division formerly known as Commercial Resources by separating the renewable energy program and leasing program, and appointing management and staff to develop and facilitate each program's respective policies and procedures.
Land Sale
Commissioner Lyons' policy is to sell state trust lands only when the sale would enhance the leasing potential of surrounding trust lands.
In an effort continue a revenue stream after a sale is completed, Commissioner Lyons will in some cases collect a percentage of lot sales, referred to as "lot sale bonuses;" require a percentage of re-sale proceeds in the event the new landowner sells any acreage purchased from the trust; or secure a percentage of gross revenues generated by the new landowner.
The proceeds from the sale of trust lands are paid into the Land Grant Permanent Fund, therefore these dollars continue to work for education. Since 2003, 19 land sales have generated nearly $19.6 million for deposit into the fund.
Land Exchange
Trust lands are often adjacent to, and/or mingled with, privately-owned and federally-held lands, often without access. Exchanging trust lands with private landowners or government agencies enables all parties to consolidate their assets and more effectively achieve their land management goals.
The 29 land exchanges completed during the Lyons Administration have increased trust assets by 83,796 acres. The value of lands acquired by the trust must be of equal or greater value than lands conveyed; therefore cash payments are most often included in the final agreement. Since 2003, the trust has increased its value and cash assets by nearly $4.5 million through land exchanges.