HB 1973 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Requires the department of community, trade, and economic development to develop an annual nature-based business and marketing plan and coordinate with the department of fish and wildlife and other appropriate agencies and organizations to promote and market nature-based tourism in Washington to maximize efforts and benefits. This effort shall include the coordination of: (1) The promotion of nature-based tourism;

(2) The promotion of fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing;

(3) The creation of partnerships among agencies, organizations, tribes, and local communities to develop and promote nature-based tourism;

(4) The provision of educational information to the minority and local communities in order to educate them about rules and regulations as well as recreational opportunities; and

(5) The promotion of local industries, such as agriculture-based tourism.

Appropriates the sum of seventy-five thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, from the general fund to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2004, to carry out the purposes of this act.

Appropriates the sum of seventy-five thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, from the general fund to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005, to carry out the purposes of this act.