Brief Description: Continuing the development of water trail sites in Washington state.

Sponsors: Representatives Cooper, Sump, Berkey and Hudgins; by request of Parks and Recreation Commission.

Hearing Date: 2/7/03

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7157).

Background:

The water trail recreation program was established in 1993 and is administered by the State Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission). The Commission is charged with planning, constructing, and maintaining facilities for water trail activities.

There is an annual permit required for camping at sites designated as water trail sites. All revenues from the annual permit and revenues from maps or publications are deposited in the water trail program account.

A 12 member advisory committee advises the Commission on the development of water trail facilities and programs. The advisory committee is required to meet at least twice annually.

Summary of Bill:

The annual water trail permit, the water trail program account, and the water trail advisory committee are eliminated. Any unspent funds in the water trail program account are transferred to the Parks Renewal and Stewardship account and may only be used for water trail purposes.

The Commission may provide expertise and consultation on the continued development of water trail sites.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.