WSR 14-22-088

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed November 3, 2014, 4:52 p.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: The department is considering the addition of the tufted puffin to the state endangered species list. Listing criteria are described in WAC 232-12-297 (3.1) through (3.4). The agency is initiating the listing process in accordance with WAC 232-12-297(5.1.1).

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 tufted puffins in Washington. These data show that the population has strongly declined in recent decades, both in numbers of birds present and in numbers of active breeding sites. This information indicates that if the current rate of decline continues, the species is at serious risk of extirpation in Washington over the next few decades. Thus, tufted puffins should be added to the state's endangered species list.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: No other federal or state agencies regulate the listing of endangered species in Washington under state law.

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