BILL REQ. #:  S-3535.1 

Read first time 01/11/12.   Referred to Committee on Energy, Natural Resources & Marine Waters.

     AN ACT Relating to providing assistance to landowners complying with regulations associated with protection of the Mazama pocket gopher; adding a new section to chapter 77.12 RCW; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 77.12 RCW to read as follows:
     (1) Upon request, the department shall conduct biological surveys, provide assistance with habitat or other management plans, and provide relevant information and other technical assistance to a person seeking such assistance in order to comply with the requirements of local critical area ordinances under RCW 36.70A.060(2) that relate to the protection of the Mazama pocket gopher (Thomomys mazama) or its habitat.
     (2) Cities and counties may only apply those provisions of critical area ordinances under RCW 36.70A.060(2) to protect the Mazama pocket gopher where the department provides assistance upon request as provided under subsection (1) of this section.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   The department of fish and wildlife shall provide assistance as provided in section 1 of this act within existing resources.