SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5615

                    As of February 11, 1997

Title:  An act relating to commercial bottom trawling.

Brief Description:  Expanding the restricted area for commercial bottom trawling.

Sponsors:  Senators Haugen and Oke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Natural Resources & Parks:  2/18/97.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

Staff:  Ross Antipa (786-7413)

Background:  Commercial bottom trawling for food fish and shellfish is currently prohibited in Puget Sound south of Foulweather Bluff, Hood Canal and Saratoga Passage.

Bottom trawling is a fishery which captures a large proportion of nontargeted fish species and other marine life along with the intended catch.

Summary of Bill:  Commercial bottom trawling for food fish and shellfish is prohibited in the Strait of Juan de Fuca east of the Sekiu River, the Strait of Georgia, the San Juan Islands, Admiralty Inlet, Puget Sound, and Hood Canal.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 11, 1997.

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