SB 5315-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Creates the aquatic nuisance species coordination committee for the purpose of fostering state, federal, tribal, and private cooperation on aquatic nuisance species issues.  The committee shall strive to minimize the accidental introduction of nonnative aquatic species and give special emphasis to preventing the introduction and spread of aquatic nuisance species.

     Directs the department of ecology to investigate the risk of introductions of nonnative aquatic species through the discharge of ballast water from ships and recommend state actions to respond to this risk.

     Authorizes the department of ecology to inspect vessels and sample ballast water to determine whether the vessel's ballast water poses a measurable risk of introducing nonnative aquatic species into the waters of the state.  Ballast water sampling and determinations of measurable risk shall be based on accepted scientific practice and parameters.

     Authorizes the department of agriculture to inspect licensed nurseries dealing in aquatic plants for the purpose of detecting aquatic nuisance species and preventing the introduction of these species into Washington waters.  If aquatic nuisance species are detected, the department of agriculture may quarantine the infested aquatic plants, and require the nursery to decontaminate or dispose of the plants in a manner that will prevent their introduction into Washington waters.

     Authorizes the state patrol to inspect boats entering the state at a port of entry for the purpose of detecting zebra mussels and preventing the introduction of this species into Washington waters.

     Provides that portions of the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.