SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6686
BYSenators Metcalf, Owen, Conner, Nelson and Rasmussen
Prohibiting the commercial harvesting of shellfish from state park lands.
Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources
Senate Hearing Date(s):February 2, 1988
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Smith, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, Kreidler, Owen.
Senate Staff:Kaleen Cottingham (786-7415)
February 2, 1988
AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 2, 1988
BACKGROUND:
With the exception of some minor limitations on shellfish harvesting on state oyster reserves, no statute expressly prohibits shellfish harvesting on specified lands. The Department of Fisheries has the mandate to preserve, protect, perpetuate and manage the food fish and shellfish in state waters. The Department shall promote orderly fisheries and seek to enhance and improve recreational and commercial fishing. Through rule-making authority, the director may specify the areas where taking shellfish is unlawful. Such authority does not, however, extend to private tideland owners and lessees of state tidelands who take shellfish.
SUMMARY:
The commercial harvest of shellfish from state park lands is prohibited.
Appropriation: none
Revenue: none
Fiscal Note: requested January 28, 1988
Senate Committee - Testified: Cleve Pinnix, Parks and Recreation (for); Joe Blum, WDF (against); Pierce Dairs, Port Madison property owner (for)