SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5817

BYSenator Metcalf

Restricting the location of floating aquaculture.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 13, 1989

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

AS OF FEBRUARY 10, 1989

BACKGROUND:

There has been considerable objection to the location of aquaculture projects in some areas of Puget Sound.  Concern has been raised about the protection of the marine environment and the pollution from aquaculture projects.

SUMMARY:

The Legislature recognizes that a proper balance between economic development and protection of the fragile marine environment is necessary and that to protect the environment, restricting location of floating aquaculture is important.  It is the Legislature's intent to protect marine areas that have a low rate of water exchange by limiting the location of floating aquaculture projects.

Floating aquaculture projects will not be permitted within the following areas:  (1) within one nautical mile of the shoreline measured at mean low water; (2) in water depths of less than 60 feet measured at mean low water; (3) within the waters of Puget Sound south of the line drawn between Bush Point on Whidbey and Nodule Point on Marrowstone Island and all the waters of Hood Canal; (4) within the marine waters east of Whidbey and Camano Islands, the Deception Pass bridge to Possession Point.

The location of floating aquaculture projects will be limited to protect existing values of marine waters including recreational, commercial, navigational uses, as well as water quality and aesthetics.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested February 7, 1989