HB 2097-S.E - DIGEST


(DIGEST AS ENACTED)


Finds that significant research, monitoring, and study efforts are currently occurring regarding Hood Canal's low-dissolved oxygen concentrations. The legislature recognizes that federal, state, tribal, and local governments and other organizations and entities are coordinating research, monitoring, and modeling efforts through the Hood Canal low-dissolved oxygen program.

Recognizes that these entities and others are continuing individual efforts to study and identify potential solutions for Hood Canal's low-dissolved oxygen concentrations. The legislature also recognizes numerous public, private, and community organizations are working to provide public education regarding Hood Canal's low-dissolved oxygen concentrations. The legislature recognizes and encourages the continuation of these efforts.

Authorizes the development of a program for rehabilitation of Hood Canal in Jefferson, Kitsap, and Mason counties within the aquatic rehabilitation zone one.

Designates the Puget Sound action team as the state lead agency for the rehabilitation program authorized in this act.

Designates the Hood Canal coordinating council as the local management board for the rehabilitation program authorized in this act.

Provides that the Puget Sound action team and the Hood Canal coordinating council must each approve and must comanage projects under the rehabilitation program authorized in this act.

Requires the local management board to report its progress on a quarterly basis to the legislative bodies of the participating counties and tribes and the participating state agencies. The local management board also shall submit an annual report describing its efforts and successes in implementing the program established according to this act to the appropriate committees of the legislature.

Declares that the activities of the Puget Sound action team and the Hood Canal coordinating council required by this act are subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose.