Subject of Possible Rule Making: Cougar hunting seasons; recreational license dealer fees; game reserves and waterfowl closure areas; falconry regulations.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 77.12.047, 77.12.020, 77.12.570, 77.12.210, 77.12.040, 77.12.010.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Provides clarification and recreational opportunity.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have regulating authority for falconry under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. They are delegating some of this authority to the states. Hence, the need for change in state regulations.

     Process for Developing New Rule:      Agency study.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Dave Brittell, Wildlife Program Assistant Director, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98504-1091, phone (360) 902-2515.

February 25, 2009

Loreva M. Preuss

Rules Coordinator

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