Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee
HB 1922
Brief Description: Concerning hydraulic project approval mitigation after natural events.
Sponsors: Representatives Hunt, Callan and Parshley.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Adds factors for consideration in woody debris mitigation of a hydraulic project approval after certain natural events.
Hearing Date: 2/12/25
Staff: Lily Smith (786-7175).
Background:

Hydraulic Project Approvals.

 

Any activity that will use, divert, obstruct, or change the natural flow or bed of any of the waters of the state must first obtain a Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) from the Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).  Conditions attached to approval of an HPA may include specific mitigation requirements, such as the placement of woody debris to compensate for woody debris removed in the initial work.  The adequacy of the proposal for the protection of fish life is the only ground upon which an HPA may be approved, denied, or conditioned.
Summary of Bill:

The WDFW must consider the following factors when requiring the placement of woody debris as a condition of an HPA for work needed after an extreme weather event or natural disaster:

  • the emergency nature of the work;
  • limitations on appropriate placement sites due to development;
  • any potential increased risk of flooding;
  • whether the placement increases the potential for problematic log jams; and
  • the proportionate benefits to fish life from prioritizing substantial rather than exact replacement, and from not requiring replacement of debris accumulated after the initial occurrence.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Preliminary fiscal note available.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.