2005 California Public Resources Code Sections 4721-4727 Article 6. Preservation of Big Trees

4721.  It is the policy of the state to preserve as far as possible
the species Sequoia gigantea in the interest of conservation, both of
soil and of the species itself, and for the benefit of present and
future generations.
4722.  Upon the finding of the Department of Parks and Recreation or
the director, or both, that any Sequoia gigantea grove is suitably
situated and is of a size and character which justifies its
preservation by and for the public, it is the policy of the state to
acquire the grove for preservation and conservation purposes.
4723.  Pursuant to Sections 4721 and 4722, the Department of Parks
and Recreation, or the department, on favorable recommendation of the
board, may acquire any forested lands on which are found growing
trees of the species Sequoia gigantea when, in the opinion of the
commission or the board, the acquisition of such forested lands is
necessary to the preservation of the Sequoia trees and to the public
welfare.
4725.  Nothing in this article shall be construed as establishing a
policy to acquire any such Sequoia gigantea groves for preservation
and conservation out of any money appropriated for acquisition of
land for park purposes by Chapter 1422, Statutes of 1945.
4726.  Any person who willfully cuts down, strips of its bark, or
destroys by fire, any tree "over 16 feet in diameter," in the groves
of big trees situated in the Counties of Fresno, Tulare, or Kern, is
guilty of a misdemeanor, and is punishable by fine of not less than
one hundred dollars ($100) nor more than six hundred dollars ($600),
or by imprisonment in the county jail not less than 25 days nor more
than 150 days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
4727.  Upon the arrest and conviction of any person for violation of
Section 4726, the party informing is entitled to one-half of the
fines collected.