SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5822

As of February 27, 2003

Title: An act relating to hydraulic project approval.

Brief Description: Providing for hydraulic project maintenance and mitigation approval.

Sponsors: Senators Swecker, Doumit, Oke, Jacobsen and Hewitt.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Parks, Fish & Wildlife: 3/3/03.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON PARKS, FISH & WILDLIFE

Staff: Kari Guy (786-7437)

Background: A person must obtain a hydraulic project approval (HPA) for any project that will use, divert, obstruct, or change the natural flow or bed of any of the salt or fresh waters of the state before beginning construction. HPA permits are issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife to ensure protection of fish life.

At the request of a county, the department must develop five-year maintenance HPAs to allow for projects under an adopted flood control management plan or watershed plan. The maintenance HPA must allow for bank stabilization, bridge repair, removal of sand bars, channel maintenance, and other flood damage repair. Individual permits are not required for specific projects covered by the maintenance HPA.

Summary of Bill: At the request of a city, county, or private party, the department must develop five-year renewable maintenance or mitigation agreements for flood damage repair or reduction under agreed-upon conditions. The HPA must allow for bank stabilization, bridge repair, removal of sandbars, channel maintenance, and other flood damage repair and reduction activities. Individual permits are not required for specific projects covered by the maintenance HPA.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.