HB 2625 - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Finds that the economic well-being and stability of the fishing industry and the conservation of the food fish resources of the state of Washington are best served by providing managers with all available tools to stabilize and distribute the commercial harvest of targeted Puget Sound salmon stocks.  In recent years, segments of the industry in cooperation with the department of fish and wildlife have funded studies examining modification of harvest practices and fishing gear, particularly purse seine gear, to minimize or avoid impacts on nontargeted Puget Sound salmon stocks.

     Finds that the new Pacific salmon treaty agreement of 1999 will drastically reduce the commercial harvest of Fraser river sockeye salmon while likely providing increased harvest opportunities in areas of Puget Sound where only gill net gear is now authorized.

     Finds that this exclusive limitation is contrary to the long-term needs of the fishing industry and inconsistent with the legislature's intent to stabilize harvest levels while selectively targeting healthy salmon stocks.