HB 2554-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Declares that marine aquatic farming locations in Washington state have accidentally released Atlantic salmon into Puget Sound.  Similar accidents in Canada have resulted in the successful spawning of Atlantic salmon in indigenous habitat.  These events raise concern about the effect of escaped nonnative species on native runs of salmon declared threatened or endangered under the federal endangered species act.

     Declares that it is necessary to minimize the impact of escapes through the implementation of state-wide prevention measures.  Until such prevention measures are implemented, it is prudent to prohibit the expansion of salmon net pens.

     Finds that failure of state agencies to approve the use of antifoulants on nets has resulted in excessive accumulations of marine organisms whose weight has contributed to equipment failures that have resulted in escapes.