WSR 14-10-089

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed May 7, 2014, 11:58 a.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: The department is considering changes to waterfowl hunting seasons and rules and rules relating to game reserves.

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

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Changes to rules are needed to align Washington department of fish and wildlife (WDFW) rules with federal guidelines for the management of wildlife populations while allowing for recreational harvest opportunities.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: Several wildlife species are subject to United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regulation in Washington as part of the Endangered Species Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and other federal laws. Regular coordination occurs between WDFW and the USFWS, and state regulations are designed to fit within the parameters of the USFWS's regulation guidelines. In addition, the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Wildlife Services branch works with many entities across the state to mitigate wildlife conflicts and damage. WDFW also regularly coordinates activities with USDA and has both a memorandum of understanding and individual contracts with USDA for assistance with wildlife conflict issues.

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 Nate Pamplin, Wildlife Program Assistant Director, 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091, phone (360) 902-2515, fax (360) 902-2162, e-mail Wildthing@dfw.wa.gov.

May 7, 2014

Joanna M. Eide

Rules Coordinator