S-3584.1 _______________________________________________
SENATE BILL 6114
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State of Washington 55th Legislature 1998 Regular Session
By Senators Jacobsen, Oke, Spanel, Kline, Snyder and Haugen
Read first time 01/12/98. Referred to Committee on Natural Resources & Parks.
AN ACT Relating to prevention and control of nonindigenous aquatic species; creating new sections; prescribing penalties; and declaring an emergency.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:
NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. The legislature finds that the unauthorized introduction of nonindigenous aquatic species into Washington state waters poses a serious economic and environmental threat. Nonindigenous aquatic species, particularly the zebra mussel and European green crab, have adverse impacts on fisheries, waterways, public and private facilities, and the functioning of natural ecosystems. The legislature further finds that, absent effective preventative measures, the threat of zebra mussels and European green crabs requires a coordinated response. It is the intent of the legislature to prevent adverse economic and environmental impacts caused by zebra mussels and European green crabs in cooperation and coordination with local governments, the public, other states, and federal agencies.
NEW SECTION. Sec. 2. To complement programs authorized by the federal aquatic nuisance species task force, the department of fish and wildlife is directed to prevent the introduction and dispersal of zebra mussels and European green crabs and to eradicate infestations in the waters of the state. The department is authorized to: (a) Display and distribute material and literature informing boaters of the problem; (b) eradicate infestations using the most environmentally sound and economically feasible techniques available; (c) quarantine an infestation of a water body to prevent further infestation; (d) adopt rules for the prevention and control of infestations; and (e) publicize and maintain a telephone number available to the public to express concerns and report infestations.
NEW SECTION. Sec. 3. The department of fish and wildlife shall prepare, maintain, and publish a list of all lakes, ponds, or other waters of the state and other states infested with zebra mussels or European green crabs. The department may participate in regional or national work infestation groups.
NEW SECTION. Sec. 4. No person shall land a seaplane or introduce a boat, trailer, or other vehicle at any public or private access area or marina into or on any public waters of the state if the seaplane, boat, trailer, or other vehicle was previously located in any waters infested with zebra mussels or European green crabs unless the person complies with the rules adopted by the department of fish and wildlife. A violation of this section is an infraction.
NEW SECTION. Sec. 5. This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately.
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