WSR 14-22-087

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed November 3, 2014, 4:51 p.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: The department is considering the removal of Steller sea lions from the state's threatened species list (WAC 232-12-011). Delisting criteria are described in WAC 232-12-297 (4.1) and (4.2). The agency is initiating the delisting process in accordance with WAC 232-12-297(6.1.1).

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 77.04.012, 77.04.055, 77.12.020, and 77.12.047.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department has reviewed all relevant data pertaining to the population status of Steller sea lions in Washington. These data show that the Washington population has strongly increased since the 1980s and is breeding in increasing numbers. This information indicates that the species is no longer in decline or in risk of becoming endangered. Thus, Steller sea lions should be removed from the state's threatened species list.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: The National Marine Fisheries Service federally delisted the eastern distinct population segment of Steller sea lions, which includes the Washington population, in 2013. The Washington department of fish and wildlife has conducted its own review of the status of Steller sea lions in Washington and finds that the species should be delisted at the state level as well.

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. Contact by December 17, 2014. Expected proposal filing on or after December 19, 2014.

November 3, 2014

Joanna M. Eide

Rules Coordinator