SB 5886-S2 - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Declares that the department may provide start-up funds to regional fisheries enhancement groups for costs associated with any enhancement project.  The regional fisheries enhancement group advisory board and the department shall develop guidelines for providing funds to the regional fisheries enhancement groups.

     Creates the regional fisheries enhancement salmonid recovery account in the state treasury.

     Declares that regional fisheries enhancement groups, consistent with the long-term regional policy statements developed under RCW 75.50.020, shall seek to:  (1) Enhance the salmon and steelhead resources of the state;

     (2) maximize volunteer efforts and private donations to improve the salmon and steelhead resources for all citizens;

     (3) assist the department in achieving the goal to double the state-wide salmon and steelhead catch by the year 2000; and

     (4) develop projects designed to supplement the fishery enhancement capability of the department.

     Directs the department and the department of transportation to convene a fish passage barrier removal task force.

     Directs the regional fisheries enhancement group advisory board to conduct a study of federal, state, and local permitting requirements for fisheries enhancement and habitat restoration projects.  The study shall identify redundant, conflicting, or duplicative permitting requirements and rules, and shall make recommendations for streamlining and improving the permitting process.  The results of the study shall be reported to the senate natural resources and parks committee and the house of representatives natural resources committee by November 1, 1997.