Subject of Possible Rule Making: The subject of this rule making is updates and structural improvements to WAC 220-20-010. Specifically, the project splits the rule into multiple, smaller sections, better organizing the subject matter of the provisions contained in WAC 220-20-010. This project also includes adjustments to rule language dealing with Northern Pike to align the WAC with previous WAC changes adopted by the commission. The project will incorporate the changes to derelict fishing gear provisions referenced in WSR 11-16-076, filed on August 1, 2011.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 77.04.012, 77.04.013, 77.04.055, 77.12.045, and 77.12.047.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Changes to WAC 220-20-010 are needed because the rule contains a wide array of subject areas, and updates are needed to align the WAC with a previous change adopted by the commission. The project consolidates another project into this rule making to be as efficient as possible in the rule-making process.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: Washington department of fish and wildlife (WDFW) incorporates many federal fisheries regulations in rule by reference. States can be more restrictive than federal regulations, but not less so. Given these parameters, WDFW will coordinate the regulatory landscape of these rule changes, where applicable.

     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 Joanna Eide, Administrative Regulations Analyst, WDFW Enforcement Program, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091, phone (360) 902-2403, fax (360) 902-2156, e-mail Joanna.Eide@dfw.wa.gov. Contact by October 17, 2012. Expected proposal filing on or after October 24, 2012.

August 6, 2012

Joanna Eide

Administrative Regulations Analyst