HOUSE BILL REPORT

                  HB 1112

             As Reported By House Committee on:

                  Natural Resources & Parks

Title:  An act relating to environmental interpretation in Washington's state parks.

Brief Description:  Providing for environmental interpretation in state parks.

Sponsor(s):  Representatives Ferguson, Belcher, Brumsickle, R. King, Rasmussen and Miller.

Brief History:

  Reported by House Committee on:

Natural Resources & Parks, February 1, 1991, DPS.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

Majority Report: That Substitute House Bill No. 1112 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.  Signed by 11 members:  Representatives Belcher, Chair; Scott, Vice Chair; Beck, Ranking Minority Member; Brumsickle, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Dellwo; Fraser; Hargrove; Morton; Riley; Sheldon; and Wynne.

Staff:  Marilee Scarbrough (786-7196).

Background:  Existing legislation authorizes management of state park lands to: (1) maintain and enhance ecological, aesthetic, and recreational purposes; (2) preserve and maintain mature and old growth forests which may also be used for interpretive purposes; (3) protect cultural and historic resources, locations and artifacts which may be used for interpretive purposes; (4) provide recreational opportunities to the public; (5) preserve and maintain habitat; and (6) encourage public participation in the formation and implementation of park policies and programs.

There is an increasing demand from the public for environmental education.  Park users are requesting interpretation programs.  During public hearings on Ecology's Environment 2010 project, the public repeatedly commented on the need for environmental education.

Summary of Substitute Bill:  The State Parks and Recreation Commission may provide environmental interpretation activities to visitors.  Those activities may: (1) explain ecosystem; (2) explain the relationship between human behaviors and the environment; and (3) offer information to increase citizen appreciation and stewardship of the environment.

The commission may consult with, solicit assistance from and enter into agreements with private and public entities who are interested in conserving and interpreting Washington's environment.

Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill:  The original bill did not include language allowing interpretative activities to explain human needs and the multiple uses of the environment.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 17, 1991.

Effective Date of Substitute Bill:  Ninety days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.

Testimony For:  There is a demand from citizens for state parks to perform this service.  The program will allow parks to explain the environment to park visitors.

Testimony Against:  None.

Witnesses:  Cleve Pinnix, Deputy Director, Parks and Recreation Commission.