SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 5271

                    AS OF JANUARY 20, 1993

Brief Description:  Enhancing the protection and production of Chinook salmon.

SPONSORS: Senators Owen, Oke, L. Smith and McDonald

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES

Staff:  Ross Antipa (786‑7413)

Hearing Dates: January 29, 1993

BACKGROUND:

Chinook salmon are the largest and most highly regarded salmon species in the state.  They provide important recreational and commercial fisheries.  Many chinook runs are greatly reduced and they would positively respond to protection and enhancement activities.

SUMMARY:

The propagation, rearing, and release of chinook salmon into state waters shall be the highest priority among Department of Fisheries hatchery programs.  Chinook salmon eggs shall not be sold by the department.  Additional protection shall be provided to assure escapement of adult chinook salmon to spawning areas.  Immature chinook (blackmouth) recreational fisheries shall be increased.  New locations for pen rearing or pond rearing of chinook salmon are to be identified and evaluated.

New fees are instituted.  Beginning January 1, 1994:

1)Recreational chinook salmon fishers - $20/year

2)Commercial chinook salmon fishers - $500/year

3)Charter boat chinook salmon operators - $250/year

Revenue generated shall be deposited into a dedicated account in the general fund for purposes of chinook salmon enhancement.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  yes

Fiscal Note:  requested January 19, 1993