WSR 15-10-088

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed May 5, 2015, 4:31 p.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: Migratory waterfowl seasons and regulations.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 77.04.012, 77.04.055, 77.12.047, and 77.32.070.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Changes to rules are needed to provide recreational opportunity while promoting conservation of resources.

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 Washington department of fish and wildlife (WDFW) and USFWS, and state regulations are designed to fit within the parameters of 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. Contact by June 10, 2015. Expected proposal filing on or after June 19, 2015.

May 5, 2015

Joanna M. Eide

Rules Coordinator