HB 1421 - DIGEST

Finds that while it has authorized regulatory approaches by state and local governments to protect fish habitat and other critical areas, it has not required nor authorized regulatory approaches to be taken to restore or enhance fish habitat.

Finds that there are hundreds of acres primarily outside the dikes within the county under public ownership primarily under the management control of the department of natural resources and the department of fish and wildlife that have the potential to provide equal or greater value as fish habitat that have not been examined.

Declares that the purpose of this act is to require a concerted effort be made to fully use the potential to restore and enhance fishery habitat on these publicly owned lands as the highest priority.

Recognizes that this effort needs to involve representatives from a wide spectrum of the public and the involved agencies, and that it be comprised primarily by people who have first-hand knowledge of the area and who understand its history.

Creates a program for restoration and enhancement of salmonid habitat on publicly owned lands in Skagit county.