The Department, after consultation with the Department of Natural Resources, shall, where appropriate, maintain in forested lands, rather than grasslands, Department-controlled property adjacent to and between divided lanes of State highways. In determining where such forestation is appropriate, the Department shall consider whether such forestation would:
(a) enhance the scenic quality of the highway;(b) provide additional habitat for wildlife;(c) result in a financial savings from reduced grassland maintenance;(e) serve as a deterrent to soil erosion;(f) not hinder drivers' visibility or otherwise create a traffic hazard; and(g) be fiscally prudent considering the availability of low cost or no cost nursery stock as provided by the Department of Natural Resources.P.A. 89-445, eff. 2/7/1996.