A new bill introduced Nov. 1 will create a framework for responsibly developing wind and solar energy on public lands. The Public Land Renewable Energy Act of 2011 will help balance energy development, fishing and hunting opportunity by establishing a path toward a leasing program for wind and solar projects, providing funding for conservation and recreational access. The bill will set up a royalty which will be used to provide a percentage of funding to state and county government, conservation, and the processing of wind and solar permits. Brad Powell, western energy director for Trout Unlimited, said the bill will help bring balance that enables the development of energy resources while sustaining the heritage of fishing and hunting.