WSR 23-22-114
EMERGENCY RULES
DEPARTMENT OF
FISH AND WILDLIFE
[Order 23-243—Filed October 31, 2023, 2:10 p.m., effective November 1, 2023]
Effective Date of Rule: November 1, 2023.
Purpose: The purpose of this emergency rule is to close salmon fishing in a portion of Elochoman River.
Citation of Rules Affected by this Order: Amending WAC 220-312-030.
Under RCW
34.05.350 the agency for good cause finds that immediate adoption, amendment, or repeal of a rule is necessary for the preservation of the public health, safety, or general welfare, and that observing the time requirements of notice and opportunity to comment upon adoption of a permanent rule would be contrary to the public interest.
Reasons for this Finding: This emergency rule is necessary to close salmon fishing in Elochoman River downstream of the Beaver Creek Rd. Bridge.
The number of adult coho that have returned to Beaver Creek hatchery is far below the broodstock collection goal, based upon expected run timing. Closing this section of the Elochoman River to salmon retention will help increase the number of fish available for broodstock needs and help ensure future fisheries.
There is insufficient time to file permanent rules.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at the Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's own Initiative: New 1, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Date Adopted: October 31, 2023.
Kelly Susewind
Director
NEW SECTION
WAC 220-312-03000HFreshwater exceptions to statewide rules—Southwest.
Effective November 1, 2023, until further notice, the provisions of WAC 220-312-030 regarding Elochoman River salmon fishing seasons shall be modified during times and in areas as described below. All other provisions of WAC 220-312-030, not addressed herein, remain in effect unless otherwise amended by emergency rule:
Elochoman River (Wahkiakum Co.); From the mouth to Beaver Creek Rd. Bridge: Salmon: Closed.