WSR 24-21-079
EMERGENCY RULES
DEPARTMENT OF
FISH AND WILDLIFE
[Order 24-236—Filed October 15, 2024, 2:02 p.m., effective October 16, 2024]
Effective Date of Rule: October 16, 2024.
Purpose: This emergency rule will close Chinook retention in North Fork Toutle 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 Chinook retention in North Fork Toutle River. Broodstock collection at the North Toutle hatchery is lower than anticipated. Modifying fisheries to restrict Chinook retention will help the hatchery meet broodstock collection goals while allowing continued fishing for coho salmon. There is insufficient time to adopt 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Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at the Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's own Initiative: New 1, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.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 15, 2024.
Kelly Susewind
Director
NEW SECTION
WAC 220-312-03000GFreshwater exceptions to statewide rules—Southwest.
Effective October 16 through November 30, 2024, the provisions of WAC 220-312-030 regarding Toutle River, North Fork salmon fishing seasons shall be modified during times and areas as described below. All other provisions of WAC 220-312-030, not addressed herein, remain in effect unless otherwise amended by emergency rule:
Toutle River, North Fork (Cowlitz Co.): From the mouth to boundary signs posted 400 feet downstream of the fish collection facility:
Salmon: Daily limit 6 hatchery coho, including no more than 3 adults. Release all salmon other than hatchery coho.