reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.64 - Funds for Managing and Administering Lands. › 79.64.090 - Agricultural college trust management account—Creation.

RCW 79.64.090
Agricultural college trust management account—Creation.
The agricultural college trust management account is created in the state treasury. To this account shall be deposited such funds as the legislature directs or appropriates. Moneys in the agricultural college trust management account may be spent only after appropriation. Expenditures from this account may be used only for the costs of managing the assets of the agricultural school trust.
[ 2003 c 334 § 524; 1999 c 279 § 3.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Effective date—1999 c 279: See note following RCW 79.64.030.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.64 - Funds for Managing and Administering Lands. › 79.64.095 - Natural resources federal lands revolving account.

RCW 79.64.095
Natural resources federal lands revolving account.
The natural resources federal lands revolving account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the proceeds of good neighbor agreements as defined in RCW 79.02.010 and implemented by the department of natural resources and all legislative transfers, gifts, grants, and federal funds designated for use in conjunction with a good neighbor agreement implemented by the department of natural resources must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account are subject to the limitations of the agreements under which proceeds were generated and may be used only for the planning and implementation of good neighbor agreements, including management or administrative costs and relevant goods and services. Only the commissioner or the commissioner's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. The natural resources federal lands revolving account is an interest-bearing account and the interest must be credited to the account.
[ 2018 c 258 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2018 c 258: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.64 - Funds for Managing and Administering Lands. › 79.64.120 - Retirement of interfund loans—Transfer of timber cutting rights on state forestlands acquired under RCW 79.22.010 to the federal land grant trusts—Distribution of revenue from timber management activities.

RCW 79.64.120
Retirement of interfund loans—Transfer of timber cutting rights on state forestlands acquired under RCW 79.22.010 to the federal land grant trusts—Distribution of revenue from timber management activities.
(1) The department is authorized to:
(a) Determine the total present account balance with interest of the interfund loans made by the resource management cost account to the forest development account in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(b) Subject to approval of the board, effectuate a transfer of timber cutting rights on state forestlands acquired under RCW 79.22.010 to the federal land grant trusts in such proportion that each trust receives full and fair market value for the interfund loans and is fully repaid or so much thereof as possible within distribution constraints described in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) After the effective date of the transfer authorized by subsection (1)(b) of this section and until the exercise of the cutting rights on the timber transferred has been fully satisfied, the distribution of revenue from timber management activities on state forestlands acquired under RCW 79.22.010 on which cutting rights have been transferred shall be as follows:
(a) As determined by the board, an amount no greater than thirty-three and three-tenths percent to be distributed to the federal land grant trust accounts and resource management cost account as directed by RCW 79.64.040 and 79.64.050;
(b) As determined by the board, an amount not less than sixteen and seven-tenths percent to the forest development account;
(c) Fifty percent to be distributed as provided in RCW 79.64.110.
[ 2003 c 334 § 463; 1988 c 70 § 3. Formerly RCW 79.12.035.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Purpose—1988 c 70 § 3: "The purpose of RCW 79.12.035 is to provide a means to retire interfund loans authorized by RCW 79.64.030 from the resource management cost account to the forest development account. The resource management cost account is an asset of the federal land grant trusts. Section 3 of this act is intended to authorize a process by which the interfund loans may be repaid such that the federal land grant trusts will receive full fair market value without disruption in income to counties and the state general fund from management activities on state forestlands managed pursuant to chapter 79.12 RCW." [ 1988 c 70 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.010 - Purpose.

RCW 79.70.010
Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish a state system of natural area preserves and a means whereby the preservation of these aquatic and land areas can be accomplished.
All areas within the state, except those which are expressly dedicated by law for preservation and protection in their natural condition, are subject to alteration by human activity. Natural lands, together with the plants and animals living thereon in natural ecological systems, are valuable for the purposes of scientific research, teaching, as habitats of rare and vanishing species, as places of natural historic and natural interest and scenic beauty, and as living museums of the original heritage of the state.
It is, therefore, the public policy of the state of Washington to secure for the people of present and future generations the benefit of an enduring resource of natural areas by establishing a system of natural area preserves, and to provide for the protection of these natural areas.
[ 1972 ex.s. c 119 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.020 - Definitions.

RCW 79.70.020
Definitions.
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Department" means the department of natural resources.
(2) "Natural areas" and "natural area preserves" include such public or private areas of land or water which have retained their natural character, although not necessarily completely natural and undisturbed, or which are important in preserving rare or vanishing flora, fauna, geological, natural historical or similar features of scientific or educational value and which are acquired or voluntarily registered or dedicated by the owner under this chapter.
(3) "Public lands" and "state lands" have the meaning set out in RCW 79.02.010.
(4) "Council" means the natural heritage advisory council as established in RCW 79.70.070.
(5) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of public lands.
(6) "Important bird area" means those areas jointly identified by the natural heritage program and a qualifying nonprofit organization using internationally recognized scientific criteria. These areas have been found to be necessary to conserve populations of wild waterfowl, upland game birds, songbirds, and other birds native to and migrating through Washington, and contain the habitats that birds are dependent upon for breeding, migration, shelter, and sustenance.
(7) "Instrument of dedication" means any written document intended to convey an interest in real property pursuant to chapter 64.04 RCW.
(8) "Natural heritage resources" means the plant community types, aquatic types, unique geologic types, and special plant and animal species and their critical habitat as defined in the natural heritage plan established under RCW 79.70.030.
(9) "Plan" means the natural heritage plan as established under RCW 79.70.030.
(10) "Program" means the natural heritage program as established under RCW 79.70.030.
(11) "Qualifying nonprofit organization" means a national nonprofit organization, or a branch of a national nonprofit organization, that conserves and restores natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitat.
(12) "Register" means the Washington register of natural area preserves as established under RCW 79.70.030.
[ 2004 c 180 § 4; 2003 c 334 § 548; 1981 c 189 § 1; 1972 ex.s. c 119 § 2.]
NOTES:
Intent—2004 c 180: See note following RCW 79.70.110.
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.040 - Powers as to transactions involving public lands deemed natural areas—Alienation of lands designated natural area preserves.

RCW 79.70.040
Powers as to transactions involving public lands deemed natural areas—Alienation of lands designated natural area preserves.
The department is further authorized to purchase, lease, set aside, or exchange any public lands which are deemed to be natural areas: PROVIDED, That the appropriate state land trust receives the fair market value for any interests that are disposed of: PROVIDED, FURTHER, That such transactions are approved by the board of natural resources.
An area consisting of public land designated as a natural area preserve shall be held in trust and shall not be alienated except to another public use upon a finding by the department of natural resources of imperative and unavoidable public necessity.
[ 2004 c 199 § 228; 1972 ex.s. c 119 § 4.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2004 c 199: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.060 - Legislative findings—Natural heritage resources.

RCW 79.70.060
Legislative findings—Natural heritage resources.
The legislature finds:
(1) That it is necessary to establish a process and means for public and private sector cooperation in the development of a system of natural areas. Private and public landowners should be encouraged to participate in a program of natural area establishment which will benefit all citizens of the state;
(2) That there is a need for a systematic and accessible means for providing information concerning the locations of the state's natural heritage resources; and
(3) That the natural heritage advisory council should utilize a specific framework for natural heritage resource conservation decision making through a classification, inventory, priority establishment, acquisition, and management process known as the natural heritage program. Future natural areas should avoid unnecessary duplication of already protected natural heritage resources including those which may already be protected in existing publicly owned or privately dedicated lands such as nature preserves, natural areas, natural resources conservation areas, parks, or wilderness.
[ 2002 c 284 § 2; 1981 c 189 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.070 - Natural heritage advisory council.

RCW 79.70.070
Natural heritage advisory council.
(1) The natural heritage advisory council is hereby established. The council shall consist of fifteen members, ten of whom shall be chosen as follows and who shall elect from the council's membership a chairperson:
(a) Five individuals, appointed by the commissioner, who shall be recognized experts in the ecology of natural areas and represent the public, academic, and private sectors. Desirable fields of expertise are biological and geological sciences; and
(b) Five individuals, appointed by the commissioner, who shall be selected from the various regions of the state. At least one member shall be or represent a private forestland owner and at least one member shall be or represent a private agricultural landowner.
(2) Members appointed under subsection (1) of this section shall serve for terms of four years.
(3) In addition to the members appointed by the commissioner, the director of the department of fish and wildlife, the director of the department of ecology, the supervisor of the department of natural resources, the director of the state parks and recreation commission, and the director of the recreation and conservation office, or an authorized representative of each agency officer, shall serve as ex officio, nonvoting members of the council.
(4) Any vacancy on the council shall be filled by appointment for the unexpired term by the commissioner.
(5) In order to provide for staggered terms, of the initial members of the council:
(a) Three shall serve for a term of two years;
(b) Three shall serve for a term of three years; and
(c) Three shall serve for a term of four years.
(6) Members of the natural preserves advisory committee serving on July 26, 1981, shall serve as members of the council until the commissioner appoints a successor to each. The successor appointment shall be specifically designated to replace a member of the natural preserves advisory committee until all members of that committee have been replaced. A member of the natural preserves advisory committee is eligible for appointment to the council if otherwise qualified.
(7) Members of the council shall serve without compensation. Members shall be reimbursed for travel expenses as provided in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060 as now or hereafter amended.
[ 2007 c 241 § 24; 1998 c 50 § 1; 1994 c 264 § 62; 1988 c 36 § 55; 1981 c 189 § 4.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2007 c 241: See notes following RCW 79A.25.005.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.080 - Council duties.

RCW 79.70.080
Council duties.
(1) The council shall:
(a) Meet at least annually and more frequently at the request of the chairperson;
(b) Recommend policy for the natural heritage program through the review and approval of the natural heritage plan;
(c) Advise the department, the department of fish and wildlife, the state parks and recreation commission, and other state agencies managing state-owned land or natural resources regarding areas under their respective jurisdictions which are appropriate for natural area registration or dedication;
(d) Advise the department of rules and regulations that the council considers necessary in carrying out this chapter;
(e) Review and approve area nominations by the department or other agencies for registration and review and comment on legal documents for the voluntary dedication of such areas;
(f) Recommend whether new areas proposed for protection be established as natural area preserves, natural resources conservation areas, a combination of both, or by some other protected status; and
(g) Review and comment on management plans proposed for individual natural area preserves.
(2) From time to time, the council shall identify areas from the natural heritage data bank which qualify for registration. Priority shall be based on the natural heritage plan and shall generally be given to those resources which are rarest, most threatened, or underrepresented in the heritage conservation system on a statewide basis. After qualifying areas have been identified, the department shall advise the owners of such areas of the opportunities for acquisition or voluntary registration or dedication.
[ 2002 c 284 § 3; 1994 c 264 § 63; 1988 c 36 § 56; 1981 c 189 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.090 - Dedication of property as natural area.

RCW 79.70.090
Dedication of property as natural area.
(1) The owner of a registered natural area, whether a private individual or an organization, may voluntarily agree to dedicate the area as a natural area by executing with the state an instrument of dedication in a form approved by the council. The instrument of dedication shall be effective upon its recording in the real property records of the appropriate county or counties in which the natural area is located. The county assessor in computing assessed valuation shall take into consideration any reductions in property values and/or highest and best use which result from natural area dedication.
(2) A public agency owning or managing a registered natural area preserve may dedicate lands under the provisions of this chapter.
(3) The department shall adopt rules as authorized by RCW 43.12.065 and 79.70.030(1) relating to voluntary natural area dedication and defining:
(a) The types of real property interests that may be transferred;
(b) Real property transfer methods and the types of consideration of payment possible;
(c) Additional dedication provisions, such as natural area management, custody, use, and rights and privileges retained by the owner; and
(d) Procedures for terminating dedication arrangements.
[ 2003 c 334 § 550; 1981 c 189 § 6.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.100 - Public hearing—Establishment of boundary.

RCW 79.70.100
Public hearing—Establishment of boundary.
The department shall hold a public hearing in the county where the majority of the land in a proposed natural area preserve is located prior to establishing the boundary.
[ 1998 c 50 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.120 - Important bird area—Recognition requirements.

RCW 79.70.120
Important bird area—Recognition requirements.
Prior to recognizing an important bird area under this chapter, the department must:
(1) Publish notice of the proposed important bird area in the Washington state register;
(2) Publish notice of the proposed important bird area in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the proposed important bird area is located; and
(3) Conduct at least one public hearing in the county where the proposed important bird area is located.
[ 2004 c 180 § 3.]
NOTES:
Intent—2004 c 180: See note following RCW 79.70.110.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.130 - Distribution of amount in lieu of real property taxes, weed control assessment.

RCW 79.70.130
Distribution of amount in lieu of real property taxes, weed control assessment.
The state treasurer, on behalf of the department, must distribute to counties for all lands acquired for the purposes of this chapter an amount in lieu of real property taxes equal to the amount of tax that would be due if the land were taxable as open space land under chapter 84.34 RCW except taxes levied for any state purpose, plus an additional amount equal to the amount of weed control assessment that would be due if such lands were privately owned. The county assessor and county legislative authority shall assist in determining the appropriate calculation of the amount of tax that would be due. The county shall distribute the amount received under this section in lieu of real property taxes to all property taxing districts except the state in appropriate tax code areas the same way it would distribute local property taxes from private property. The county shall distribute the amount received under this section for weed control to the appropriate weed district.
[ 2005 c 303 § 11.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2005 c 303 §§ 1-14: See note following RCW 79A.15.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.70 - Natural Area Preserves. › 79.70.900 - Construction—1972 ex.s. c 119.

RCW 79.70.900
Construction—1972 ex.s. c 119.
Nothing in this chapter is intended to supersede or otherwise affect any existing legislation.
[ 1972 ex.s. c 119 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.010 - Legislative findings.

RCW 79.71.010
Legislative findings.
The legislature finds that: (1) There is an increasing and continuing need by the people of Washington for certain areas of the state to be conserved, in rural as well as urban settings, for the benefit of present and future generations; (2) such areas are worthy of conservation for their outstanding scenic and ecological values and provide opportunities for low-impact public use; (3) in certain cases acquisition of property or rights in property is necessary to protect these areas for public purposes; and (4) there is a need for a state agency to act in an effective and timely manner to acquire interests in such areas and to develop appropriate management strategies for conservation purposes.
[ 1991 c 352 § 1; 1987 c 472 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.020 - Characteristics of lands considered for conservation purposes.

RCW 79.71.020
Characteristics of lands considered for conservation purposes.
Lands possessing the following characteristics are considered by the legislature to be worthy of consideration for conservation purposes:
(1) Lands identified as having high priority for conservation, natural systems, wildlife, and low-impact public use values;
(2) An area of land or water, or land and water, that has flora, fauna, geological, archaeological, scenic, or similar features of critical importance to the people of Washington and that has retained to some degree or has reestablished its natural character;
(3) Examples of native ecological communities; and
(4) Environmentally significant sites threatened with conversion to incompatible or ecologically irreversible uses.
[ 1991 c 352 § 2; 1987 c 472 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.030 - Definitions.

RCW 79.71.030
Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
"Commissioner" means the commissioner of public lands.
"Department" means the department of natural resources.
"Conservation purposes" include but are not limited to: (1) Maintaining, enhancing, or restoring ecological systems, including but not limited to aquatic, coastal, riparian, montane, and geological systems, whether such systems be unique or typical to the state of Washington; (2) maintaining exceptional scenic landscapes; (3) maintaining habitat for threatened, endangered, and sensitive species; (4) enhancing sites for primitive recreational purposes; and (5) outdoor environmental education.
"Low-impact public use" includes public recreation uses and improvements that do not adversely affect the resource values, are appropriate to the maintenance of the site in a relatively unmodified natural setting, and do not detract from long-term ecological processes.
"Management activities" may include limited production of income from forestry, agriculture, or other resource management activities, if such actions are consistent with the other purposes and requirements of this chapter.
"Natural resources conservation area" or "conservation area" means an area having the characteristics identified in RCW 79.71.020.
[ 1991 c 352 § 3; 1987 c 472 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.040 - Acquisition of property for natural resources conservation areas—Designation.

RCW 79.71.040
Acquisition of property for natural resources conservation areas—Designation.
The department is authorized to acquire property or less than fee interests in property, as defined by RCW 64.04.130, by all means, except eminent domain, for creating natural resources conservation areas, where acquisition is the best way to achieve the purposes of this chapter. Areas acquired or assembled by the department for conservation purposes will be designated as "Washington natural resources conservation areas."
[ 1987 c 472 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.050 - Transfer of trust land for natural resources conservation areas—Use of proceeds.

RCW 79.71.050
Transfer of trust land for natural resources conservation areas—Use of proceeds.
The department is authorized to transfer fee simple interest or less than fee interests in trust land, as defined by Article XVI of the Washington Constitution, for the creation of natural resources conservation areas, provided the owner of the trust land receives full fair market value compensation for all rights transferred. The proceeds from such transfers shall be used for the exclusive purpose of acquiring real property to replace those interests utilized for the conservation area in order to meet the department's fiduciary obligations and to maintain the productive land base of the various trusts.
[ 1991 c 352 § 4; 1987 c 472 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.060 - Public hearing on proposed conservation area.

RCW 79.71.060
Public hearing on proposed conservation area.
The department shall hold a public hearing in the county where the majority of the land in the proposed natural resources conservation area is located prior to establishing the boundary. An area proposed for designation must contain resources consistent with characteristics identified in RCW 79.71.020.
[ 1991 c 352 § 5; 1987 c 472 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.070 - Management plans for designated areas.

RCW 79.71.070
Management plans for designated areas.
The department shall develop a management plan for each designated area. The plan shall identify the significant resources to be conserved consistent with the purposes of this chapter and identify the areas with potential for low-impact public and environmental educational uses. The plan shall specify what types of management activities and public uses that are permitted, consistent with the conservation purposes of this chapter. The department shall make such plans available for review and comment by the public and other state, tribal, and local agencies, prior to final approval by the commissioner.
[ 1991 c 352 § 6; 1987 c 472 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.080 - Administration of natural resources conservation areas—Management agreements and activities.

RCW 79.71.080
Administration of natural resources conservation areas—Management agreements and activities.
The department is authorized to administer natural resources conservation areas and may enter into management agreements for these areas with federal agencies, state agencies, local governments, and private nonprofit conservancy corporations, as defined in RCW 64.04.130, when such agreements are consistent with the purposes of acquisition as defined in the adopted management plan. All management activities within a Washington natural resources conservation area will conform with the plan. Any moneys derived from the management of these areas in conformance with the adopted plan shall be deposited in the natural resources conservation areas stewardship account.
[ 1991 c 352 § 7; 1987 c 472 § 8.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.090 - Natural resources conservation areas stewardship account.

RCW 79.71.090
Natural resources conservation areas stewardship account.
There is hereby created the natural resources conservation areas stewardship account in the state treasury to ensure proper and continuing management of land acquired or designated pursuant to this chapter. Funds for the stewardship account shall be derived from appropriations of state general funds, federal funds, grants, donations, gifts, bond issue receipts, securities, and other monetary instruments of value. Income derived from the management of natural resources conservation areas shall also be deposited in this stewardship account.
Appropriations from this account to the department shall be expended for no other purpose than the following: (1) To manage the areas approved by the legislature in fulfilling the purposes of this chapter; (2) to manage property acquired as natural area preserves under chapter 79.70 RCW; (3) to manage property transferred under the authority and appropriation provided by the legislature to be managed under chapter 79.70 RCW or this chapter or acquired under chapter 79A.15 RCW; and (4) to pay for operating expenses for the natural heritage program under chapter 79.70 RCW.
[ 2000 c 11 § 25; 1991 sp.s. c 13 § 118; 1991 c 352 § 8; 1987 c 472 § 9.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—Severability—1991 sp.s. c 13: See notes following RCW 18.08.240.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.100 - Designation of certain areas as natural resources conservation areas.

RCW 79.71.100
Designation of certain areas as natural resources conservation areas.
The legislature hereby designates certain areas as natural resources conservation areas:
(1) The Mt. Si conservation area (King County), RCW 79A.05.725, is hereby designated the Mt. Si natural resources conservation area. The department is directed to continue its management of this area and to develop a plan for its continued conservation and use by the public. In accordance with Article XVI of the Washington state Constitution, any available private lands and trust lands located within the designated boundaries of the Mt. Si conservation area shall be leased or acquired in fee from the appropriate trust at fair market value using funds appropriated for that purpose.
(2) Trust lands and state-owned land on Cypress Island (Skagit County) are hereby designated as the Cypress Island natural resources conservation area. Any available private lands necessary to achieve the purposes of this section shall be acquired by the department of natural resources using funds appropriated for that purpose. Trust lands located within the designated boundaries of the Cypress Island natural resources conservation area shall be leased or acquired in fee from the appropriate trust at fair market value.
(3) Woodard Bay (Thurston County) is hereby designated the Woodard Bay natural resources conservation area. The department is directed to acquire property available in Sec. 18, T.19N, R1W using funds appropriated for that purpose.
(4) The area adjacent to the Dishman Hills natural area (Spokane County) is hereby designated the Dishman Hills natural resources conservation area. The department is directed to acquire property available in Sec. 19, 29 and 30, T.25N, R44E, using funds appropriated for that purpose.
[ 2000 c 11 § 26; 1987 c 472 § 10.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.120 - Elk river natural resources conservation area—Transfer of management—Hunting opportunities.

RCW 79.71.120
Elk river natural resources conservation area—Transfer of management—Hunting opportunities.
The property currently designated as the Elk river natural area preserve is transferred from management under chapter 79.70 RCW as a natural area preserve to management under chapter 79.71 RCW as a natural resources conservation area. The legislature finds that hunting is a suitable low-impact public use within the Elk river natural resources conservation area. The department of natural resources shall incorporate this legislative direction into the management plan developed for the Elk river natural resources conservation area. The department shall work with the department of fish and wildlife to identify hunting opportunities compatible with the area's conservation purposes.
[ 1997 c 371 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.71 - Washington Natural Resources Conservation Areas. › 79.71.130 - Distribution of amount in lieu of real property taxes, weed control assessment.

RCW 79.71.130
Distribution of amount in lieu of real property taxes, weed control assessment.
The state treasurer, on behalf of the department, must distribute to counties for all lands acquired for the purposes of this chapter an amount in lieu of real property taxes equal to the amount of tax that would be due if the land were taxable as open space land under chapter 84.34 RCW except taxes levied for any state purpose, plus an additional amount equal to the amount of weed control assessment that would be due if such lands were privately owned. The county assessor and county legislative authority shall assist in determining the appropriate calculation of the amount of tax that would be due. The county shall distribute the amount received under this section in lieu of real property taxes to all property taxing districts except the state in appropriate tax code areas the same way it would distribute local property taxes from private property. The county shall distribute the amount received under this section for weed control to the appropriate weed district.
[ 2005 c 303 § 12.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2005 c 303 §§ 1-14: See note following RCW 79A.15.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.73 - Milwaukee Road Corridor. › 79.73.010 - Management and control.

RCW 79.73.010
Management and control.
Except as provided in chapter 79A.05 RCW, the portion of the Milwaukee Road corridor from the west end of the bridge structure over the Columbia river, which point is located in section 34, township 16 north, range 23 east, W.M., to the Idaho border purchased by the state shall be under the management and control of the department.
[ 2018 c 279 § 5; 2003 c 334 § 456; ( 2003 c 334 § 455; 2000 c 11 § 23; 1996 c 129 § 8 expired July 1, 2006); 1989 c 129 § 2; 1984 c 174 § 6. Formerly RCW 79.08.275.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Construction—1989 c 129: "Nothing in this act shall be construed to affect any existing or reversionary interests in the real property lying within the Milwaukee Road corridor." [ 1989 c 129 § 4.]
Purpose—1984 c 174: "The purpose of RCW 43.51.405 through 43.51.411 and 79.08.275 through 79.08.283 is to set forth the state's policy regarding the approximately two hundred thirteen-mile corridor of land purchased by the state from the Milwaukee Railroad Company under section 17(21), chapter 143, Laws of 1981." [ 1984 c 174 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.73 - Milwaukee Road Corridor. › 79.73.020 - Recreational use—Permit—Rules—Fees.

RCW 79.73.020
Recreational use—Permit—Rules—Fees.
The portion of the Milwaukee Road corridor under management and control of the department shall be open to individuals or organized groups that obtain permits from the department to travel the corridor for recreational purposes. The department shall, for the purpose of issuing permits for corridor use, adopt rules necessary for the orderly and safe use of the corridor and protection of adjoining landowners. Permit fees shall be established at a level that will cover costs of issuance. Upon request of abutting landowners, the department shall notify the landowners of permits issued for use of the corridor adjacent to their property.
[ 2003 c 334 § 457; 1984 c 174 § 7. Formerly RCW 79.08.277.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Purpose—1984 c 174: See note following RCW 79.73.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.73 - Milwaukee Road Corridor. › 79.73.030 - Powers.

RCW 79.73.030
Powers.
The department may do the following with respect to the portion of the Milwaukee Road corridor under its control:
(1) Enter into agreements to allow the realignment or modification of public roads, farm crossings, water conveyance facilities, and other utility crossings;
(2) Regulate activities and restrict uses, including, but not limited to, closing portions of the corridor to reduce fire danger or protect public safety in consultation with local legislative authorities or fire districts;
(3) Place hazard warning signs and close hazardous structures;
(4) Renegotiate deed restrictions upon agreement with affected parties; and
(5) Approve and process the sale or exchange of lands or easements if (a) such a sale or exchange will not adversely affect the recreational, transportation, or utility potential of the corridor and (b) the department has not entered into a lease of the property in accordance with RCW 79.73.040.
[ 2003 c 334 § 458; 1984 c 174 § 8. Formerly RCW 79.08.279.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Purpose—1984 c 174: See note following RCW 79.73.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.73 - Milwaukee Road Corridor. › 79.73.040 - Leasing—Duties with respect to unleased portions.

RCW 79.73.040
Leasing—Duties with respect to unleased portions.
(1) The department shall offer to lease, and shall subsequently lease if a reasonable offer is made, portions of the Milwaukee Road corridor under its control to the person who owns or controls the adjoining land for periods of up to ten years commencing with June 7, 1984. The lessee shall assume the responsibility for fire protection, weed control, and maintenance of water conveyance facilities and culverts. The leases shall follow standard department leasing procedures, with the following exceptions:
(a) The lessee may restrict public access pursuant to RCW 79.73.020 and subsection (3) of this section.
(b) The right of renewal shall be to the current lessee if the lessee still owns or controls the adjoining lands.
(c) If two persons own or control opposite sides of the corridor, each person shall be eligible for equal portions of the available property.
(2) The department has the authority to renew leases in existence on June 7, 1984.
(3) The leases shall contain a provision allowing the department to issue permits to travel the corridor for recreational purposes.
(4) Unleased portions of the Milwaukee Road property under this section shall be managed by the department. On these unleased portions, the department solely shall be responsible for weed control, culvert, bridge, and other necessary maintenance and fire protection services. The department shall place hazard warning signs and close hazardous structures on unleased portions and shall regulate activities and restrict uses, including closing the corridor during seasons of high fire danger.
[ 2003 c 334 § 459; 1984 c 174 § 9. Formerly RCW 79.08.281.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Purpose—1984 c 174: See note following RCW 79.73.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.73 - Milwaukee Road Corridor. › 79.73.050 - Authority to terminate or modify leases—Notice.

RCW 79.73.050
Authority to terminate or modify leases—Notice.
The state, through the department, shall reserve the right to terminate a lease entered into pursuant to RCW 79.73.040 or modify authorized uses of the corridor for future recreation, transportation, or utility uses. If the state elects to terminate the lease, the state shall provide the lessee with a minimum of six months' notice.
[ 2003 c 334 § 460; 1984 c 174 § 10. Formerly RCW 79.08.283.]
NOTES:
Intent—2003 c 334: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
Purpose—1984 c 174: See note following RCW 79.73.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.100 - Derelict Vessels. › 79.100.005 - Findings.

RCW 79.100.005
Findings.
The legislature finds that there has been an increase in the number of derelict and abandoned vessels that are either grounded or anchored upon publicly or privately owned submerged lands. These vessels are public nuisances and safety hazards as they often pose hazards to navigation, detract from the aesthetics of Washington's waterways, and threaten the environment with the potential release of hazardous materials. The legislature further finds that the costs associated with the disposal of derelict and abandoned vessels are substantial, and that in many cases there is no way to track down the current vessel owners in order to seek compensation. As a result, the costs associated with the removal of derelict vessels becomes a burden on public entities and the taxpaying public.
[ 2002 c 286 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.100 - Derelict Vessels. › 79.100.020 - Chapter not exclusive remedy.

RCW 79.100.020
Chapter not exclusive remedy.
This chapter is not intended to limit or constrain the ability and authority of the authorized public entities to enact and enforce ordinances or other regulations relating to derelict and abandoned vessels, or to take any actions authorized by federal or state law in responding to derelict or abandoned vessels. This chapter is also not intended to be the sole remedy available to authorized public entities against the owners of derelict and abandoned vessels.
[ 2002 c 286 § 3.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.100 - Derelict Vessels. › 79.100.030 - Authority of authorized public entity—Owner retains primary responsibility—Limitation on civil liability.

RCW 79.100.030
Authority of authorized public entity—Owner retains primary responsibility—Limitation on civil liability.
(1) An authorized public entity has the authority, subject to the processes and limitations of this chapter, to store, strip, use, auction, sell, salvage, scrap, or dispose of an abandoned or derelict vessel found on or above aquatic lands within the jurisdiction of the authorized public entity. A vessel disposal must be done in an environmentally sound manner and in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws, including the state solid waste disposal provisions provided for in chapter 70A.205 RCW. Scuttling or sinking of a vessel is only permissible after obtaining the express permission of the owner or owners of the aquatic lands below where the scuttling or sinking would occur, and obtaining all necessary state and federal permits or licenses.
(2) The primary responsibility to remove a derelict or abandoned vessel belongs to the owner, operator, or lessee of the moorage facility or the aquatic lands where the vessel is located. If the authorized public entity with the primary responsibility is unwilling or unable to exercise the authority granted by this section, it may request the department to assume the authorized public entity's authority for a particular vessel. The department may at its discretion assume the authorized public entity's authority for a particular vessel after being requested to do so. For vessels not at a moorage facility, an authorized public entity with jurisdiction over the aquatic lands where the vessel is located may, at its discretion, request to assume primary responsibility for that particular vessel from the owner of the aquatic lands where the vessel is located.
(3) The authority granted by this chapter is permissive, and no authorized public entity has a duty to exercise the authority. No liability attaches to an authorized public entity that chooses not to exercise this authority. An authorized public entity, in the good faith performance of the actions authorized under this chapter, is not liable for civil damages resulting from any act or omission in the performance of the actions other than acts or omissions constituting gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. Any person whose assistance has been requested by an authorized public entity, who has entered into a written agreement pursuant to RCW 79.100.070, and who, in good faith, renders assistance or advice with respect to activities conducted by an authorized public entity pursuant to this chapter, is not liable for civil damages resulting from any act or omission in the rendering of the assistance or advice, other than acts or omissions constituting gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.
[ 2021 c 65 § 88; 2011 c 247 § 4; 2002 c 286 § 4.]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2021 c 65: See note following RCW 53.54.030.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.100 - Derelict Vessels. › 79.100.050 - Use or disposal of vessel.

RCW 79.100.050
Use or disposal of vessel.
(1) After taking custody of a vessel, the authorized public entity may use or dispose of the vessel in any appropriate and environmentally sound manner without further notice to any owners, but must give preference to uses that derive some monetary benefit from the vessel, either in whole or in scrap. If no value can be derived from the vessel, the authorized public entity must give preference to the least costly, environmentally sound, reasonable disposal option. Any disposal operations must be consistent with the state solid waste disposal provisions provided for in chapter 70A.205 RCW.
(2) If the authorized public entity chooses to offer the vessel at a public auction, either a minimum bid may be set or a letter of credit may be required, or both, to discourage future reabandonment of the vessel.
(3) Proceeds derived from the sale of the vessel must first be applied to any administrative costs that are incurred by the authorized public entity during the notification procedures set forth in RCW 79.100.040, removal and disposal costs, and costs associated with environmental damages directly or indirectly caused by the vessel. If the proceeds derived from the vessel exceed all administrative costs, removal and disposal costs, and costs associated with environmental damages directly or indirectly caused by the vessel, the remaining moneys must be applied to satisfying any liens registered against the vessel.
(4) Any value derived from a vessel greater than all liens and costs incurred reverts to the derelict vessel removal account established in RCW 79.100.100.
[ 2021 c 65 § 89; 2002 c 286 § 6.]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2021 c 65: See note following RCW 53.54.030.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.100 - Derelict Vessels. › 79.100.060 - Reimbursement for costs.

RCW 79.100.060
Reimbursement for costs.
(1) The owner of an abandoned or derelict vessel, or any person or entity that has incurred secondary liability for an abandoned or derelict vessel under this chapter or RCW 88.26.030, is responsible for reimbursing an authorized public entity for all reasonable and auditable costs associated with the removal or disposal of the owner's vessel under this chapter. These costs include, but are not limited to, costs incurred exercising the authority granted in RCW 79.100.030, all administrative costs incurred by the authorized public entity during the procedure set forth in RCW 79.100.040, removal and disposal costs, and costs associated with environmental damages directly or indirectly caused by the vessel. An authorized public entity that has taken temporary possession of a vessel may require that all reasonable and auditable costs associated with the removal of the vessel be paid before the vessel is released to the owner.
(2) Reimbursement for costs may be sought from an owner, or any person or entity that has incurred secondary liability under this chapter or RCW 88.26.030, who is identified subsequent to the vessel's removal and disposal.
(3) If the full amount of all costs due to the authorized public entity under this chapter is not paid to the authorized public entity within thirty days after first notifying the responsible parties of the amounts owed, the authorized public entity or the department may bring an action in any court of competent jurisdiction to recover the costs, plus reasonable attorneys' fees and costs incurred by the authorized public entity.
[ 2014 c 195 § 601; 2013 c 291 § 40; 2006 c 153 § 4; 2002 c 286 § 7.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2014 c 195: See notes following RCW 79.100.170 and 79.100.180.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 79 - Public Lands › Chapter 79.100 - Derelict Vessels. › 79.100.070 - Contract with private company/individual.

RCW 79.100.070
Contract with private company/individual.
An authorized public entity may enter into a contract with a private company or individual to carry out the authority granted in this chapter.
[ 2002 c 286 § 8.]