WSR 14-05-097

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed February 19, 2014, 9:37 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Aquaculture disease control rules (chapter 220-77 WAC) and oyster diseases and pests rules (chapter 220-72 WAC).

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 77.04.012, 77.12.047, and 77.115.010.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department is considering amending the rules related to shellfish aquaculture disease and pest control to provide additional protection against the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). Rule changes will embody the principles of prevention as the highest priority, integrated management of pathways, clean and drain principles, and rapid response capabilities.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: RCW 77.115.010 requires the Washington department of fish and wildlife (WDFW) and the Washington department of agriculture (WSDA) jointly develop rules related to disease inspection control for aquatic farmers. WDFW will work with WSDA to develop these rule changes.

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, WDFW Rules Coordinator, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091, phone (360) 902-2403, fax (360) 902-2155, e-mail Joanna.Eide@dfw.wa.gov. Contact by April 16, 2014. Expected proposal filing on or after April 23, 2014.

February 19, 2014

Joanna M. Eide

Rules Coordinator