SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2294

BYRepresentatives R. King, Bowman, Haugen, Morris, Brumsickle, Sayan, Spanel, Basich, Brooks, Smith, S. Wilson and Youngsman; by request of Department of Fisheries

Removing restrictions on the sale of salmon taken in test fishing operations.

House Committe on Fisheries & Wildlife

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 14, 1990; February 20, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, DeJarnatt, Kreidler, Owen, Patterson, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

                  February 20, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 20, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The Director of the Department of Fisheries has authority to conduct test fisheries that are used for a variety of data gathering needs. A test fishery generally consists of a small number of vessels and a limited harvest of fish.

Licensed commercial fishers submit bids annually through the state bidding process for contracts allowing their participation in the various test fisheries conducted by the department.

The director also has the authority to sell fish caught during a test fishery.  Salmon caught during a test fishery can only be sold during an open commercial fishing season in the district where the fish were caught.

Though the director of the Department of Fisheries has authority to conduct test fisheries, coordination and agreement is required from the tribal governments under the Puget Sound Salmon Management Plan. Salmon management on the Columbia River includes the tribal governments and the states of Oregon and Idaho.

SUMMARY:

Sale of salmon taken during a test fishery is no longer restricted to an open commercial fishing season in the district where the fish were caught.  Therefore, the director is allowed to sell salmon, caught during test fishing, anywhere.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Loren Stern, Ed Manary, Dept. of Fisheries (pro)