SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6147

                    As of January 13, 1998

Title:  An act relating to the control of predators to assist in threatened and endangered salmon recovery.

Brief Description:  Requiring a salmon predator control report.

Sponsors:  Senators Morton and Swecker.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Natural Resources & Parks:  1/20/98.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

Staff:  Ross Antipa (786-7413)

Background:  Many Washington salmon and steelhead stocks are threatened, endangered or their populations are depressed.  The effect of predation upon these reduced populations is largely unknown.  Additional information is needed to assess the role that predation may play to inhibit restoration of salmon and trout stocks.

Summary of Bill:  The Department of Fish and Wildlife must assign existing employees in each management region to assess the degree of predation on salmonids by fish-eating predators.  The Fish and Wildlife Commission must prepare a comprehensive statewide report to the Legislature on salmonid predation by December 10, 1998.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on January 13, 1998.

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.