SB 5934 - DIGEST

Finds that the Wenatchis have been repeatedly promised in multiple agreements a fishery in their aboriginal territory and that the establishment of such a fishery would benefit the Wenatchi people.

Finds that it is important to recognize the cultural importance of salmon fishing to only the Wenatchi Indians by authorizing these people a ceremonial and subsistence fishery, while also preserving the state's ability to conserve and manage the salmon resource.

Directs the department to work with the Wenatchi members of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, as identified by the Colville business council, to identify an area to take salmon for ceremonial and subsistence purposes in either the Icicle river or Wenatchee river.

Declares that the permit system shall provide that permits must be issued to up to fifty Wenatchi members of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation as identified by the Colville business council.