Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Rural Development, Agriculture, & Natural Resources Committee

HB 1036

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning increased fish hatchery production.

Sponsors: Representative Walsh.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires the Department of Fish and Wildlife to ensure that hatchery production in certain counties is equal to or greater than the annual average production over the past 20 years.

Hearing Date: 2/1/19

Staff: Rebecca Lewis (786-7339).

Background:

The Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department) is responsible for managing the state's fish and wildlife resources, and for establishing basic rules and regulations governing the time, place, manner, and methods used to harvest or enjoy fish and wildlife. As a part of its management responsibility, the Department operates approximately 80 hatchery facilities throughout the state. About 75 percent of facilities raise salmon or steelhead and 25 percent rear trout and other game fish.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Fish and Wildlife must ensure that fish production in Grays Harbor, Pacific, and Wahkiakum county hatcheries is equal to or greater than the annual average each hatchery has produced in the last 20 years. This act may be known and cited as the "Willapa Bay Salmon Restoration Act."

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 28, 2019.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.