Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Natural Resources Committee

SJM 8006

Brief Description:  Requesting fish passage modifications be made to the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery.

Sponsors:  By Senators Jacobsen, Swecker and Parlette.

Brief Summary of Bill

$The Legislature requests the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to modify the water withdrawal structure at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery so that its operation will be consistent with the federal Endangered Species Act.

Hearing Date:  3/26/01

Staff:  Bill Lynch (786‑7092).

Background: 

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service operates a chinook salmon hatchery on the Icicle River near Leavenworth.  The fish hatchery uses a water withdrawal design that does not allow for proper fish passage.  There are currently three Icicle River species of salmonids listed as either threatened or endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act.  These species are steelhead trout, spring run chinook salmon, and bull trout.  The water withdrawal design could be modified to provide more protection to these fish species.

Summary of Bill: 

The Legislature requests the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to modify the water withdrawal structure at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery so that its operation will be consistent with the federal Endangered Species Act.  Congress is asked to provide sufficient funds for the project.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not Requested.