PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: The department is considering implementing a quality Timothy seed program.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 15.49.310, 15.49.370(3), and chapter 34.05 RCW.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The department has been requested by the Organization of Kittitas County Timothy Hay Growers & Suppliers to provide voluntary certification services for Timothy hay seed. These rules would enable the department to conduct a voluntary, fee-for-service certification program for Timothy seed lots. No new fees will be established and there will not be an increase to existing fees. Ultimately this program will benefit Washington hay growers by increasing the number of Timothy seed lots that have been tested and have been found to be free from objectionable contaminants.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: The Washington state department of agriculture (WSDA) staff will develop the specific rule proposal. A special committee comprised of Timothy hay producers, exporters, and seed dealers will provide specific input on the proposed program.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Fawad Shah, WSDA, Seed Program, 21 North 1st Avenue, Suite 203, Yakima, WA 98902, (509) 249-6950, e-mail Fshah@agr.wa.gov.
May 27, 2008
Dennis Hannapel
Assistant Director