FINAL BILL REPORT

                    I 655

                           C 1 L 97

Brief Description:  Methods of taking wildlife.

Sponsors:  People of the State of Washington

Background:  The Director of the Department of Fish and Wildlife may authorize the removal or killing of wildlife that is destroying property, or when necessary for management and research.  The director disposes of the wildlife taken in a manner serving the best interests of the state and any proceeds obtained are credited to the state wildlife fund.  The director may enter into written agreements to prevent damage to private property by wildlife.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife regulates the use of hounds and issues hound stamps if dogs are used to hunt certain species, during specified time periods, and in identified areas.

Summary:  It is unlawful to take, hunt, or attract black bear with the aid of bait.  Bait is defined as any substance placed, exposed, deposited, distributed, scattered, or otherwise used to attract black bears with the intent of hunting them.  This provision does not apply to: government agents protecting private property or livestock, preserving public safety, establishing and operating feeding stations to prevent damage to commercial timber land, or scientific and educational purposes under a permit or memorandum issued by the director.

It is unlawful to hunt or pursue black bear, cougar, bobcat, or lynx with the aid of a dog or dogs.  This provision does not apply to:  government agents protecting private property or livestock, preserving public safety, or scientific and educational purposes under a permit or memorandum issued by the director.  An owner or tenant of real property can use  a dog or dogs to hunt or pursue black bear, cougar, bobcat, or lynx with a permit issued and conditioned by the director.

Violation of the provisions is a gross misdemeanor. In addition to criminal penalties, the director must revoke the individual=s hunting license and refrain from issuing a hunting license to that person for a period of five years following revocation.  After a second violation, the person is permanently precluded from obtaining a hunting license.

Effective:  December 5, 1996