SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5888

BYSenators Smith and DeJarnatt

Extending exemptions for Mt. St. Helens recovery operations.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 28, 1989

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, Kreidler, Owen, Patterson, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

                  March 8, 1989

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 7, 1989

BACKGROUND:

The eruption of Mt. St. Helens has required extensive work to keep water channels open and to limit damage from siltation.  The continual dredging and filling is necessary and these emergency projects would be delayed if the full permit process had to be followed.  Exemptions are monitored by both county government and the state.

SUMMARY:

The Mt. St. Helens recovery operations exemptions from state water and flood control permits, requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act and Hydraulic Project Act are extended from 1990 to 1995.  The hydraulic project permit exemption will include the river area to mile three on the south fork of the Toutle River.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Van Youngquist, Chair, Cowlitz County Commissioners (pro); Ed Manary, Department of Fisheries (pro)