SENATE BILL REPORT

ESHB 223

BYHouse Committee on Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives Sutherland, Peery, Nutley, L. Smith, Sanders, Cooper, Rayburn, Holm and Bumgarner)

Providing increased recreational fishing opportunities for salmon and sturgeon.

House Committe on Natural Resources

Senate Committee on Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):April 2, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Owen, Chairman; DeJarnatt, Vice Chairman; Barr, Conner, Craswell, Peterson, Stratton.

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

                  April 2, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, APRIL, 2, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The Legislature, as the policy setting entity for the Department of Fisheries, has for many years been uncertain as to the most beneficial way to allocate salmon and sturgeon between recreational and commercial fisheries.

There is a need for sound economic data to help the Legislature formulate policy on salmon and sturgeon allocations.

SUMMARY:

The Department of Community Development (DCD) shall prepare a report and present it to the appropriate legislative committees by January 1, 1988.  The report will provide information regarding the value of commercial and sports fisheries on local and state economies.  This information will assist the Department of Fisheries in establishing the best fisheries management practices.  DCD shall work with the Departments of Fisheries and Trade and Economic Development, representatives of the commercial fishing industry, and sports anglers.  DCD may work with the economic councils representing areas directly impacted by fisheries management policies.

The report shall include (1) an evaluation of the economic impact to the state and local communities, (2) recommend any changes in existing laws or rules, (3) recommend changes in regulations developed by either the Pacific Salmon Commission or the Pacific Fisheries Management Council, (4) recommend management strategies necessary to provide stable sports and commercial seasons and harvest levels, (5) identify the impact of enhancing weak coho and chinook stocks, and (6) identify a means of providing stability to the commercial fishing fleet.

DCD will hold at least two public hearings prior to submitting the report.

Sunset provision for the entire act, January 15, 1988.

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Representative Dean Sutherland, original sponsor; Steve Arbaugh, Puget SoundGillnetters Association; Meg Vanschoore, Department of Community Development; Robert Zuanich, purse seine vessel owner