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)