WSR 18-04-077

PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY

[Filed February 2, 2018, 1:21 p.m.]

Subject of Possible Rule Making: The Washington state department of archaeology and historic preservation (DAHP) is considering writing rules for the issuance of archaeological excavation and removal permits. In consultation with professional archaeologists, DAHP has identified the need to develop rules that simplify requirements for permits that propose archaeological monitoring.

Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 27.34.220, 27.53.140, 43.21C.120.

Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Under WAC 25-48-060, application requirements for archaeological excavation and removal permits are based on the needs of intensive scientific data-recovery efforts, including lengthy and detailed context statements and research designs. Archaeological monitoring work does not require the context and level of detail currently required for permit applications under WAC 25-48-060. Simplifying the application requirements for archaeological monitoring permit applications will reduce the time and effort needed to produce applications by professional archaeologists and project proponents, and the time and effort to review applications by agency and tribal staff.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

Process for Developing New Rule: DAHP will hold meetings and consult with affected parties to discuss the new rules. DAHP will request, record and respond to all comments before drafting final rules.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Allyson Brooks, Ph.D., P.O. Box 48343, Olympia, WA, phone 360-586-3065, fax 360-586-3067, email allyson.brooks@dahp.wa.gov, web site www.dahp.wa.gov; or Lance Wollwage, P.O. Box 48343, Olympia, WA, phone 360-586-3536, fax 360-586-3067, email lance.wollwage@dahp.wa.gov, web site www.dahp.wa.gov.

Allyson Brooks

Director