The Fence Line Fairness Act directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture to create mediation committees in every state with National Forest System land to help resolve property boundary disputes between private landowners and the federal government. Each committee will consist of five members—two appointed by the Agriculture Secretary and three appointed by state agriculture or natural resources departments—all of whom must be active farmers or ranchers serving five-year terms. When a boundary dispute arises, the Secretary must notify the affected private landowner within 30 days and offer them the option to use the mediation process, with disputes referred to the appropriate committee within 60 days if the landowner agrees. The mediation committee will hold hearings, provide recommendations to resolve the dispute, and submit findings to federal and state officials and relevant congressional committees within 180 days. The bill creates a structured process designed to address disagreements over where National Forest land ends and private property begins, giving landowners a local alternative to resolve these disputes.
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