reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.459 - Release and recapture of salmon or steelhead prohibited.

RCW 77.12.459
Release and recapture of salmon or steelhead prohibited.
A person other than the United States, an Indian tribe recognized as such by the federal government, the state, a subdivision of the state, or a municipal corporation or an agency of such a unit of government shall not release salmon or steelhead trout into the public waters of the state and subsequently to recapture and commercially harvest such salmon or trout. This section shall not prevent any person from rearing salmon or steelhead trout in pens or in a confined area under circumstances where the salmon or steelhead trout are confined and never permitted to swim freely in open water.
[ 1998 c 190 § 74; 1985 c 457 § 12. Formerly RCW 75.08.300.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.465 - Abandoned or derelict vessels.

RCW 77.12.465
Abandoned or derelict vessels.
The director has the authority, subject to the processes and limitation outlined in chapter 79.100 RCW, to store, strip, use, auction, sell, salvage, scrap, or dispose of an abandoned or derelict vessel found on or above publicly or privately owned aquatic lands within the jurisdiction of the department.
[ 2002 c 286 § 19.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2002 c 286: See RCW 79.100.901.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.469 - Renewal of wildlife rehabilitation licenses—Adoption of rules.

RCW 77.12.469
Renewal of wildlife rehabilitation licenses—Adoption of rules.
The department must develop a process for renewing wildlife rehabilitation licenses. All wildlife rehabilitation licenses issued by the department prior to January 1, 2006, must be renewed by January 1, 2010. The department may adopt rules as necessary to implement this section.
[ 2007 c 246 § 5.]
NOTES:
Finding—2007 c 246: See note following RCW 77.12.467.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.471 - Wildlife rehabilitation account.

RCW 77.12.471
Wildlife rehabilitation account.
The wildlife rehabilitation account is created in the state treasury. All receipts from moneys directed to the account from RCW 46.68.435 must be deposited into the account. Moneys in the account may be spent only after appropriation. Expenditures from the account may be used only for the support of the wildlife rehabilitation program created under RCW 77.12.467.
[ 2010 c 161 § 1160; 2007 c 246 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—Intent—Legislation to reconcile chapter 161, Laws of 2010 and other amendments made during the 2010 legislative session—2010 c 161: See notes following RCW 46.04.013.
Finding—2007 c 246: See note following RCW 77.12.467.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.475 - Fish and wildlife equipment revolving account.

RCW 77.12.475
Fish and wildlife equipment revolving account.
(1) The fish and wildlife equipment revolving account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. The department must reimburse the account for all moneys expended from the account. Reimbursements may be made with moneys appropriated to the department or from other moneys otherwise available to the department. All moneys generated by the use or repair of vehicles, water vessels, and heavy equipment or generated by the sale or surplusing of vehicles, water vessels, and heavy equipment must be deposited in the account. The department's reimbursements may be prorated over the useful life of the vehicle, water vessel, or heavy equipment acquired with moneys from the account.
(2) Expenditures from the account may be used only for the purchase or lease of vehicles, water vessels, and heavy equipment, to include the payment of costs for the operation, repair, and maintenance of the vehicles, water vessels, and heavy equipment.
(3) Only the director of fish and wildlife or the director'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.
(4) For the purposes of this section, the terms and charges for the intra-agency use of vehicles, water vessels, or heavy equipment or for the disposal through sale of vehicles, water vessels, or heavy equipment is solely within the discretion of the department and the department's determination of the terms, charges, or sale price is considered a reasonable term, charge, or sale price.
[ 2009 c 368 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.540 - Public shooting grounds—Effect of filing—Use for booming.

RCW 77.12.540
Public shooting grounds—Effect of filing—Use for booming.
Upon filing a certificate with the commissioner of public lands that shows that lands will be used for public shooting grounds by the department, the lands shall be withdrawn from sale or lease and then may be used as public shooting grounds under control of the department. The commissioner of public lands may also use the lands for booming purposes.
[ 1980 c 78 § 128; 1955 c 36 § 77.40.080. Prior: 1945 c 179 § 2; Rem. Supp. 1945 § 7993-5b. Formerly RCW 77.40.080.]
NOTES:
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.550 - Tidelands used as public shooting grounds—Diversion.

RCW 77.12.550
Tidelands used as public shooting grounds—Diversion.
Tidelands granted to the department to be used as public shooting grounds shall revert to the state if used for another purpose. The department shall certify the reversion to the commissioner of public lands who shall then supervise and control the lands as provided in Title 79 RCW.
[ 1980 c 78 § 126; 1955 c 36 § 77.40.050. Prior: 1941 c 190 § 3; Rem. Supp. 1941 § 7993-8. Formerly RCW 77.40.050.]
NOTES:
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.560 - Tidelands used as public shooting grounds—Rules.

RCW 77.12.560
Tidelands used as public shooting grounds—Rules.
The commission may adopt rules regarding the use of the tidelands as shooting grounds.
[ 1980 c 78 § 127; 1955 c 36 § 77.40.060. Prior: 1941 c 190 § 4; Rem. Supp. 1941 § 7993-9. Formerly RCW 77.40.060.]
NOTES:
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.570 - Game farm licenses—Rules—Exemption.

RCW 77.12.570
Game farm licenses—Rules—Exemption.
The commission shall establish the qualifications and conditions for issuing a game farm license. The director shall adopt rules governing the operation of game farms. Private sector cultured aquatic products as defined in RCW 15.85.020 are exempt from regulation under this section.
[ 1987 c 506 § 49; 1985 c 457 § 22; 1980 c 78 § 98; 1975 1st ex.s. c 15 § 2; 1970 ex.s. c 29 § 14; 1955 c 36 § 77.28.020. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 82; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-91. Formerly RCW 77.28.020.]
NOTES:
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.580 - Game farms—Authority to dispose of eggs.

RCW 77.12.580
Game farms—Authority to dispose of eggs.
A licensed game farmer may purchase, sell, give away, or dispose of the eggs of game birds or game fish lawfully possessed as provided by rule of the director.
[ 1987 c 506 § 50; 1980 c 78 § 99; 1955 c 36 § 77.28.070. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 87; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-96. Formerly RCW 77.28.070.]
NOTES:
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.590 - Game farms—Tagging of products—Exemption.

RCW 77.12.590
Game farms—Tagging of products—Exemption.
Wildlife given away, sold, or transferred by a licensed game farmer shall have attached to each wildlife member, package, or container, a tag, seal, or invoice as required by rule of the director. Private sector cultured aquatic products as defined in RCW 15.85.020 are exempt from regulation under this section.
[ 1987 c 506 § 51; 1985 c 457 § 23; 1980 c 78 § 100; 1955 c 36 § 77.28.080. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 88; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-97. Formerly RCW 77.28.080.]
NOTES:
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.600 - Game farms—Shipping of wildlife—Exemption.

RCW 77.12.600
Game farms—Shipping of wildlife—Exemption.
A common carrier may transport wildlife shipped by a licensed game farmer if the wildlife is tagged, sealed, or invoiced as provided in RCW 77.12.590. Packages containing wildlife shall have affixed to them tags or labels showing the name of the licensee and the consignee. For purposes of this section, wildlife does not include private sector cultured aquatic products as defined in RCW 15.85.020. However, if a means of identifying such products is required by rules adopted under RCW 15.85.060, this exemption from the definition of wildlife applies only if the aquatic products are identified in conformance with those rules.
[ 1985 c 457 § 24; 1980 c 78 § 101; 1955 c 36 § 77.28.090. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 89; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-98. Formerly RCW 77.28.090.]
NOTES:
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.610 - Check stations—Purpose.

RCW 77.12.610
Check stations—Purpose.
The purposes of RCW 77.12.610 through 77.12.630 are to facilitate the department's gathering of biological data for managing wildlife, fish, and shellfish resources of this state and to protect these resources by assuring compliance with Title 77 RCW, and rules adopted thereunder, in a manner designed to minimize inconvenience to the public.
[ 2000 c 107 § 225; 1982 c 155 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.620 - Check stations—Stopping for inspection.

RCW 77.12.620
Check stations—Stopping for inspection.
The department is authorized to require hunters and fishers occupying a motor vehicle approaching or entering a check station to stop and produce for inspection: (1) Any wildlife, fish, shellfish, or seaweed in their possession; (2) licenses, permits, tags, stamps, or catch record cards, required under Title 77 RCW, or rules adopted thereunder. For these purposes, the department is authorized to operate check stations which shall be plainly marked by signs, operated by at least one uniformed fish and wildlife officer, and operated in a safe manner.
[ 2013 c 23 § 240; 2000 c 107 § 226; 1982 c 155 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.630 - Check stations—Other inspections, powers.

RCW 77.12.630
Check stations—Other inspections, powers.
The powers conferred by RCW 77.12.610 through 77.12.630 are in addition to all other powers conferred by law upon the department. Nothing in RCW 77.12.610 through 77.12.630 shall be construed to prohibit the department from operating wildlife information stations at which persons shall not be required to stop and report, or from executing arrests, searches, or seizures otherwise authorized by law.
[ 2000 c 107 § 227; 1982 c 155 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.650 - Protection of bald eagles and their habitats—Cooperation required.

RCW 77.12.650
Protection of bald eagles and their habitats—Cooperation required.
The department shall cooperate with other local, state, and federal agencies and governments to protect bald eagles and their essential habitats through existing governmental programs, including but not limited to:
(1) The natural heritage program managed by the department of natural resources under chapter 79.70 RCW;
(2) The natural area preserve program managed by the department of natural resources under chapter 79.70 RCW;
(3) The shoreline management master programs adopted by local governments and approved by the department of ecology under chapter 90.58 RCW.
[ 1987 c 506 § 52; 1984 c 239 § 2.]
NOTES:
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Legislative declaration—1984 c 239: "The legislature hereby declares that the protection of the bald eagle is consistent with a societal concern for the perpetuation of natural life cycles, the sensitivity and vulnerability of particular rare and distinguished species, and the quality of life of humans." [ 1984 c 239 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.655 - Habitat buffer zones for bald eagles—Rules.

RCW 77.12.655
Habitat buffer zones for bald eagles—Rules.
The department, in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW, shall adopt and enforce necessary rules defining the extent and boundaries of habitat buffer zones for bald eagles. Rules shall take into account the need for variation of the extent of the zone from case to case, and the need for protection of bald eagles. The rules shall also establish guidelines and priorities for purchase or trade and establishment of conservation easements and/or leases to protect such designated properties. The department shall also adopt rules to provide adequate notice to property owners of their options under RCW 77.12.650 and this section.
[ 2000 c 107 § 228; 1990 c 84 § 3; 1984 c 239 § 3.]
NOTES:
Legislative declaration—1984 c 239: See note following RCW 77.12.650.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.690 - Annual migratory bird permit design—Administration, sale, and distribution—Deposit and use of funds.

RCW 77.12.690
Annual migratory bird permit design—Administration, sale, and distribution—Deposit and use of funds.
(1) The director is responsible for the selection of the annual *migratory bird stamp design. The department shall create collector art prints and related artwork, utilizing the same design. The administration, sale, distribution, and other matters relating to the prints and sales of stamps with prints and related artwork shall be the responsibility of the department.
(2) The total amount brought in from the sale of prints and related artwork shall be deposited in the limited fish and wildlife account created in RCW 77.12.170(1). The costs of producing and marketing of prints and related artwork shall be paid out of the total amount brought in from sales of those same items. Net funds derived from the sale of prints and related artwork shall be used by the director to contract with one or more appropriate individuals or nonprofit organizations for the development of waterfowl propagation projects within Washington which specifically provide waterfowl for the Pacific flyway. The department shall not contract with any individual or organization that obtains compensation for allowing waterfowl hunting except if the individual or organization does not permit hunting for compensation on the subject property.
[ 2020 c 148 § 16; 2011 1st sp.s. c 21 § 16; 2009 c 333 § 38. Prior: 1998 c 245 § 158; 1998 c 191 § 33; 1987 c 506 § 55; 1985 c 243 § 6.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: The term "migratory bird stamp" was changed to "migratory bird permit" pursuant to 2011 c 339 § 2.
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 21: See note following RCW 72.23.025.
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.050.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.705 - Southern resident orcas population threshold—Report to the legislature.

RCW 77.12.705
Southern resident orcas population threshold—Report to the legislature.
If the population of southern resident orcas reaches a threshold of 70 individuals or fewer, the department must provide a report to the legislature within one year of the threshold being met, consistent with RCW 43.01.036, that includes a study of how mandatory 1,000-yard setbacks for all vessels has been enforced and identifies gaps and solutions to support any improvements, the use of data science with respect to southern resident orca pod health, and evidence-based plans to address southern resident orca pod health.
[ 2023 c 452 § 5.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2023 c 452: See note following RCW 77.15.740.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.722 - Canada goose hunting—Season or bag limit restriction.

RCW 77.12.722
Canada goose hunting—Season or bag limit restriction.
For the purposes of establishing a season or bag limit restriction on Canada goose hunting, the commission shall not consider leg length or bill length of dusky Canada geese (Branta canadensis occidentalis).
[ 2000 c 107 § 259; 1998 c 190 § 119; 1996 c 207 § 3; 1987 c 506 § 59; 1983 c 3 § 196; 1981 c 310 § 3; 1980 c 78 § 70; 1977 c 44 § 1; 1955 c 36 § 77.16.020. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 41; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-50. Formerly RCW 77.16.020.]
NOTES:
Intent—1996 c 207: See note following RCW 77.08.010.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective dates—Legislative intent—1981 c 310: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.732 - Transfer of ownership of department-owned vessel—Review of vessel's physical condition.

RCW 77.12.732
Transfer of ownership of department-owned vessel—Review of vessel's physical condition.
(1) Prior to transferring ownership of a department-owned vessel, the department shall conduct a thorough review of the physical condition of the vessel, the vessel's operating capability, and any containers and other materials that are not fixed to the vessel.
(2) If the department determines that the vessel is in a state of advanced deterioration or poses a reasonably imminent threat to human health or safety, including a threat of environmental contamination, the department may: (a) Not transfer the vessel until the conditions identified under this subsection have been corrected; or (b) permanently dispose of the vessel by landfill, deconstruction, or other related method.
(3) Vessels taken into custody under chapter 79.100 RCW are not subject to this section or RCW 77.12.734.
[ 2013 c 291 § 9.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.734 - Transfer of ownership of department-owned vessel—Further requirements.

RCW 77.12.734
Transfer of ownership of department-owned vessel—Further requirements.
(1) Following the inspection required under RCW 77.12.732 and prior to transferring ownership of a department-owned vessel, the department shall obtain the following from the transferee:
(a) The purposes for which the transferee intends to use the vessel; and
(b) Information demonstrating the prospective owner's intent to obtain legal moorage following the transfer, in the manner determined by the department.
(2)(a) The department shall remove any containers or other materials that are not fixed to the vessel and contain hazardous substances, as defined under RCW 70A.305.020.
(b) However, the department may transfer a vessel with:
(i) Those containers or materials described under (a) of this subsection where the transferee demonstrates to the department's satisfaction that the container's or material's presence is consistent with the anticipated use of the vessel; and
(ii) A reasonable amount of fuel as determined by the department, based on factors including the vessel's size, condition, and anticipated use of the vessel, including initial destination following transfer.
(c) The department may consult with the department of ecology in carrying out the requirements of this subsection.
(3) Prior to sale, and unless the vessel has a title or valid marine document, the department is required to apply for a certificate of title for the vessel under RCW 88.02.510 and register the vessel under RCW 88.02.550.
[ 2021 c 65 § 81; 2013 c 291 § 10.]
NOTES:
Explanatory statement—2021 c 65: See note following RCW 53.54.030.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.755 - Ranked inventory of fish passage barriers.

RCW 77.12.755
Ranked inventory of fish passage barriers.
In coordination with the department of natural resources and lead entity groups, the department must establish a ranked inventory of fish passage barriers on land owned by small forestland owners based on the principle of fixing the worst first within a watershed consistent with the fish passage priorities of the forest and fish report. The department shall first gather and synthesize all available existing information about the locations and impacts of fish passage barriers in Washington. This information must include, but not be limited to, the most recently available limiting factors analysis conducted pursuant to RCW 77.85.060(2), the stock status information contained in the department of fish and wildlife salmonid stock inventory (SASSI), the salmon and steelhead habitat inventory and assessment project (SSHIAP), and any comparable science-based assessment when available. The inventory of fish passage barriers must be kept current and at a minimum be updated by the beginning of each calendar year. Nothing in this section grants the department or others additional right of entry onto private property.
[ 2003 c 311 § 10.]
NOTES:
Findings—Effective date—2003 c 311: See notes following RCW 76.09.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.760 - Steelhead trout fishery.

RCW 77.12.760
Steelhead trout fishery.
Steelhead trout shall be managed solely as a recreational fishery for non-Indian fishers under the rule-setting authority of the fish and wildlife commission.
Commercial non-Indian steelhead fisheries are not authorized.
[ 2013 c 23 § 241; 1993 sp.s. c 2 § 78.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 §§ 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.765 - Tilton and Cowlitz rivers—Proposals to reinstate salmon and steelhead.

RCW 77.12.765
Tilton and Cowlitz rivers—Proposals to reinstate salmon and steelhead.
The director shall develop proposals to reinstate the natural salmon and steelhead trout fish runs in the Tilton and upper Cowlitz rivers in accordance with RCW 77.04.120(3).
[ 2000 c 107 § 206; 1993 sp.s. c 2 § 65; 1985 c 208 § 2. Formerly RCW 77.04.100.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 §§ 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.790 - Eastern Washington pheasant enhancement program—Purpose.

RCW 77.12.790
Eastern Washington pheasant enhancement program—Purpose.
There is created within the department the eastern Washington pheasant enhancement program. The purpose of the program is to improve the harvest of pheasants by releasing pen-reared rooster pheasants on sites accessible for public hunting and by providing grants for habitat enhancement on public or private lands under agreement with the department. The department may either purchase rooster pheasants from private contractors, or produce rooster pheasants from department-sanctioned cooperative projects, whichever is less expensive, provided that the pheasants released meet minimum department standards for health and maturity. Any surplus hen pheasants from pheasant farms or projects operated by the department or the department of corrections for this enhancement program shall be made available to landowners who voluntarily open their lands to public pheasant hunting. Pheasants produced for the eastern Washington pheasant enhancement program must not detrimentally affect the production or operation of the department's western Washington pheasant release program. The release of pheasants for hunting purposes must not conflict with or supplant other department efforts to improve upland bird habitat or naturally produced upland birds.
[ 1997 c 422 § 2.]
NOTES:
Findings—1997 c 422: "The legislature finds that pheasant populations in eastern Washington have greatly decreased from their historic high levels and that pheasant hunting success rates have plummeted. The number of pheasant hunters has decreased due to reduced hunting success. There is an opportunity to enhance the pheasant population by release of pen-reared pheasants and habitat enhancements to create increased hunting opportunities on publicly owned and managed lands." [ 1997 c 422 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.800 - Pheasant hunting—Opportunities for juvenile hunters.

RCW 77.12.800
Pheasant hunting—Opportunities for juvenile hunters.
The commission must establish special pheasant hunting opportunities for juvenile hunters in eastern Washington for the 1998 season and future seasons.
[ 1997 c 422 § 3.]
NOTES:
Findings—1997 c 422: See note following RCW 77.12.790.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.810 - Small game hunting license—Disposition of fee.

RCW 77.12.810
Small game hunting license—Disposition of fee.
As provided in RCW 77.32.440, a portion of each small game hunting license fee shall be deposited in the eastern Washington pheasant enhancement account created in RCW 77.12.820.
[ 1998 c 191 § 30; 1997 c 422 § 4.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1998 c 191: See note following RCW 77.32.410.
Findings—1997 c 422: See note following RCW 77.12.790.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.820 - Eastern Washington pheasant enhancement account—Created—Use of moneys—Report to the legislature.

RCW 77.12.820
Eastern Washington pheasant enhancement account—Created—Use of moneys—Report to the legislature.
The eastern Washington pheasant enhancement account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts under RCW 77.12.810 must be deposited in the account. Moneys in the account are subject to legislative appropriation and shall be used for the purpose of funding the eastern Washington pheasant enhancement program. The department may use moneys from the account to improve pheasant habitat or to purchase or produce pheasants. The department must continue to release rooster pheasants in eastern Washington. The eastern Washington pheasant enhancement account funds must not be used for the purchase of land. The account may be used to offer grants to improve pheasant habitat on public or private lands that are open to public hunting. The department may enter partnerships with private landowners, nonprofit corporations, cooperative groups, and federal or state agencies for the purposes of pheasant habitat enhancement in areas that will be available for public hunting. The department shall submit an annual report to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1st regarding the department's eastern Washington pheasant activities.
[ 2009 c 333 § 52; 1997 c 422 § 5.]
NOTES:
Findings—1997 c 422: See note following RCW 77.12.790.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.850 - Definitions.

RCW 77.12.850
Definitions.
The definitions in this section apply throughout RCW 77.12.850 through 77.12.860 unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Salmon" means all species of the genus Oncorhynchus, except those classified as game fish in this title, and includes:
Scientific Name
Common Name
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Chinook salmon
Oncorhynchus kisutch
Coho salmon
Oncorhynchus keta
Chum salmon
Oncorhynchus gorbuscha
Pink salmon
Oncorhynchus nerka
Sockeye salmon
(2) "Department" means the department of fish and wildlife.
(3) "Stamp" means the stamp created under the Washington salmon stamp program and the Washington junior salmon stamp program, created in RCW 77.12.850 through 77.12.860.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 21 § 20; 1999 c 342 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 21: See note following RCW 72.23.025.
Finding—1999 c 342: "The legislature finds that salmon recovery in Washington state will involve everyone and will require funds to accomplish recovery measures. Several species of salmon in Washington are, or are expected to be, listed as threatened or endangered under the federal endangered species act. At present, these species include chinook, chum, bull trout and coho. To bring attention to the importance of the recovery of salmon and their place in Washington's heritage, raise funds for salmon recovery projects, and involve citizens of all ages, the Washington salmon stamp and Washington junior salmon stamp programs are created." [ 1999 c 342 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.852 - Washington salmon stamp program—Creation.

RCW 77.12.852
Washington salmon stamp program—Creation.
(1) The Washington salmon stamp program is created in the department. The purpose of the program is the creation of a stamp that will portray a salmonid species native to Washington and will be used for stamps, prints, and posters that can be sold in a wide range of prices and editions to appeal to citizens and collectors interested in supporting salmon restoration. The proceeds from the sale of the Washington salmon stamp shall be used for protection, preservation, and restoration of salmonid habitat in Washington.
(2) Every year the department will announce competition, open to all Washington artists, for the creation of the year's Washington salmon stamp. The department will market the stamp and prints through a wide distribution method including websites, license sites, and at public events.
(3) The winning artist will receive a monetary award and a certain number of artist proof prints.
[ 1999 c 342 § 3.]
NOTES:
Finding—1999 c 342: See note following RCW 77.12.850.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.854 - Washington junior salmon stamp program—Creation.

RCW 77.12.854
Washington junior salmon stamp program—Creation.
(1) The Washington junior salmon stamp program is created in the department. The purpose of the program is the creation of a stamp that will portray a salmonid species native to Washington and will be used for stamps, prints, and posters that can be sold in a wide range of prices and editions to appeal to citizens and collectors interested in supporting salmon restoration.
(2) Every year the department will announce a competition for the Washington junior salmon stamp program among Washington K-12 students. The top winner will receive a scholarship award.
[ 1999 c 342 § 4.]
NOTES:
Finding—1999 c 342: See note following RCW 77.12.850.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.858 - Deposit of receipts—Expenditures.

RCW 77.12.858
Deposit of receipts—Expenditures.
All receipts from the salmon stamp program created under RCW 77.12.850 through 77.12.860 must be deposited into the regional fisheries enhancement salmonid recovery account created under RCW 77.95.130. Expenditures from the account may be used only for the purposes specified in RCW 77.95.130 and chapter 342, Laws of 1999. The department shall report biennially to the legislature on the amount of money the salmon stamp program has generated.
[ 2000 c 107 § 230; 1999 c 342 § 6.]
NOTES:
Finding—1999 c 342: See note following RCW 77.12.850.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.860 - Stamp design—Department's rule-making authority.

RCW 77.12.860
Stamp design—Department's rule-making authority.
The department is granted the authority to establish by rule the method for selecting appropriate designs for the Washington salmon stamp program and Washington junior salmon stamp program. The stamp shall be designed and produced in accordance with department rules.
[ 1999 c 342 § 7.]
NOTES:
Finding—1999 c 342: See note following RCW 77.12.850.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.865 - Derelict fishing gear—Guidelines for removal and disposal.

RCW 77.12.865
Derelict fishing gear—Guidelines for removal and disposal.
(1) As used in this section and RCW 77.12.870, "derelict fishing gear" includes lost or abandoned fishing nets, fishing lines, and other commercial and recreational fishing equipment. The term does not include lost or abandoned vessels or shellfish pots.
(2) The department, in partnership with the Northwest straits commission, the department of natural resources, and other interested parties, must publish guidelines for the safe removal and disposal of derelict fishing gear. The guidelines may be updated as deemed necessary by the department. The guidelines must be made available to any person interested in derelict fishing gear removal.
(3) Derelict fishing gear removal conducted in accordance with the guidelines prepared in subsection (2) of this section is not subject to permitting under RCW 77.55.021.
[ 2010 c 193 § 7; 2005 c 146 § 1004; 2002 c 20 § 2.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2005 c 146: See note following RCW 77.55.011.
Finding—Purpose—2002 c 20: "The legislature finds that fishing gear that is lost or abandoned may continue to catch marine organisms long after the gear is lost. The purpose of this act is to develop safe, effective methods to remove derelict fishing gear, eliminate regulatory barriers to gear removal, and discourage future losses of fishing gear." [ 2002 c 20 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.880 - Wildlife program management.

RCW 77.12.880
Wildlife program management.
The department shall manage wildlife programs in a manner that provides for public opportunities to view wildlife and supports nature-based and wildlife viewing tourism without impairing the state's wildlife resources.
[ 2003 c 153 § 3.]
NOTES:
Findings—2003 c 153: See note following RCW 43.330.090.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.885 - Reported predatory wildlife interactions—Website posting.

RCW 77.12.885
Reported predatory wildlife interactions—Website posting. (Effective until June 30, 2027.)
Except for the personal information on reported depredations by wolves that is exempted from disclosure as provided in RCW 42.56.430, the department shall post on its internet website all reported predatory wildlife interactions, including reported human safety confrontations or sightings as well as the known details of reported depredations by predatory wildlife on humans, pets, or livestock, within ten days of receiving the report. The posted material must include, but is not limited to, the location and time, the known details, and a running summary of such reported interactions by identified specie [species] and interaction type within each affected county. For the purposes of this section and RCW 42.56.430, "predatory wildlife" means grizzly bears, wolves, and cougars.
[ 2017 c 246 § 2; 2007 c 293 § 2.]
NOTES:
Expiration date—2017 c 246: See note following RCW 42.56.430.
The department shall post on its internet website all reported predatory wildlife interactions, including reported human safety confrontations or sightings as well as the known details of reported depredations by predatory wildlife on humans, pets, or livestock, within ten days of receiving the report. The posted material must include, but is not limited to, the location and time, the known details, and a running summary of such reported interactions by identified specie [species] and interaction type within each affected county. For the purposes of this section and RCW 42.56.430, "predatory wildlife" means grizzly bears, wolves, and cougars.
[ 2007 c 293 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.887 - Washington conservation corps.

RCW 77.12.887
Washington conservation corps.
The department shall cooperate, when appropriate, as a partner in the Washington conservation corps established in chapter 43.220 RCW.
[ 2011 c 20 § 15.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2011 c 20: See note following RCW 43.220.020.
Intent—Application—2011 c 20: See RCW 43.220.905.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.005 - Finding—Intent.

RCW 77.15.005
Finding—Intent.
The legislature finds that merger of the departments of fisheries and wildlife resulted in two criminal codes applicable to fish and wildlife, and that it has become increasingly difficult to administer and enforce the two criminal codes. Furthermore, laws defining crimes involving fish and wildlife have evolved over many years of changing uses and management objectives for fish and wildlife. The resulting two codes make it difficult for citizens to comply with the law and unnecessarily complicate enforcement of laws against violators.
The legislature intends by chapter 190, Laws of 1998 to revise and recodify the criminal laws governing fish and wildlife, ensuring that all people involved with fish and wildlife are able to know and understand the requirements of the laws and the risks of violation. Additionally, the legislature intends to create a more uniform approach to criminal laws governing fish and wildlife and to the laws authorizing prosecution, sentencing, and punishments, including repealing crimes that are redundant to other provisions of the criminal code.
Chapter 190, Laws of 1998 is not intended to alter existing powers of the commission or the director to adopt rules or exercise powers over fish and wildlife. In some places reference is made to violation of department rules, but this is intended to conform with current powers of the commission, director, or both, to adopt rules governing fish and wildlife activities.
[ 1998 c 190 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.010 - Exemption for department actions.

RCW 77.15.010
Exemption for department actions.
A person is not guilty of a crime under this chapter if the person is an officer, employee, or agent of the department lawfully acting in the course of his or her authorized duties.
[ 1998 c 190 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.020 - Authority to define violation of rule as infraction—Agreement to enforce certain civil infractions.

RCW 77.15.020
Authority to define violation of rule as infraction—Agreement to enforce certain civil infractions.
(1) If the commission or director has authority to adopt a rule that is punishable as a crime under this chapter, then the commission or director may provide that violation of the rule shall be punished with notice of infraction under RCW 7.84.030. Neither the commission nor the director have the authority to adopt a rule providing that a violation punishable as an infraction shall be a crime.
(2) The director may, under the provisions of RCW 7.84.140, enter into an agreement allowing employees of the state parks and recreation commission and the department of natural resources to enforce certain civil infractions created under this title.
[ 2011 c 320 § 17; 2005 c 321 § 2; 1998 c 190 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2011 c 320: See note following RCW 79A.80.005.
Findings—Intent—2011 c 320: See RCW 79A.80.005.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.030 - Individual animal unlawfully taken—Separate offense.

RCW 77.15.030
Individual animal unlawfully taken—Separate offense.
Except as provided in RCW 77.15.260(2)(b), where it is unlawful to hunt, take, fish, possess, or traffic in big game or protected or endangered fish or wildlife, then each individual animal unlawfully taken or possessed is a separate offense.
[ 2012 c 176 § 6; 1999 c 258 § 1; 1998 c 190 § 4.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.040 - Jurisdiction.

RCW 77.15.040
Jurisdiction.
District courts have jurisdiction concurrent with superior courts for misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors committed in violation of this chapter and may impose the punishment provided for these offenses. Superior courts have jurisdiction over felonies committed in violation of this chapter. Venue for offenses occurring in offshore waters shall be in a county bordering on the Pacific Ocean, or the county where fish or wildlife from the offense are landed.
[ 1998 c 190 § 5.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.050 - "Conviction" defined.

RCW 77.15.050
"Conviction" defined.
(1) Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, as used in this chapter, "conviction" means a final conviction in a state or municipal court.
(2) A plea of guilty or a finding of guilt for a violation of this title or department rule constitutes a conviction regardless of whether the imposition of sentence is deferred or the penalty is suspended.
[ 2012 c 176 § 7; 2009 c 333 § 1; 1998 c 190 § 6.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.060 - Reference to chapters 7.84 and 9A.20 RCW.

RCW 77.15.060
Reference to chapters 7.84 and 9A.20 RCW.
Crimes defined by this chapter shall be punished as infractions, misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, or felonies, based on the classification of crimes set out in chapters 7.84 and 9A.20 RCW.
[ 1998 c 190 § 7.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.065 - Authority of attorney general if prosecuting attorney defaults.

RCW 77.15.065
Authority of attorney general if prosecuting attorney defaults.
If the prosecuting attorney of the county in which a violation of this title or rule of the department occurs fails to file an information against the alleged violator, the attorney general upon request of the commission may file an information in the superior court of the county and prosecute the case in place of the prosecuting attorney. The commission may request prosecution by the attorney general if thirty days have passed since the commission informed the county prosecuting attorney of the alleged violation.
[ 1996 c 267 § 9; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 41; 1949 c 112 § 24; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-222. Formerly RCW 75.10.100, 75.08.275, 43.25.070.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1996 c 267: See notes following RCW 77.12.177.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.075 - Enforcement authority of fish and wildlife officers—Volunteer chaplain.

RCW 77.15.075
Enforcement authority of fish and wildlife officers—Volunteer chaplain.
(1) Fish and wildlife officers shall have and exercise, throughout the state, such police powers and duties as are vested in sheriffs and peace officers generally. Fish and wildlife officers are general authority Washington peace officers.
(2) An applicant for a fish and wildlife officer position must be a citizen of the United States of America or a lawful permanent resident who can read and write the English language. Before a person may be appointed to act as a fish and wildlife officer, the person shall meet the minimum standards for employment with the department, including successful completion of a psychological examination and polygraph examination or similar assessment procedure administered in accordance with the requirements of RCW 43.101.095(2).
(3) Any liability or claim of liability under chapter 4.92 RCW that arises out of the exercise or alleged exercise of authority by a fish and wildlife officer rests with the department unless the fish and wildlife officer acts under the direction and control of another agency or unless the liability is otherwise assumed under an agreement between the department and another agency.
(4) The department may utilize the services of a volunteer chaplain as provided under chapter 41.22 RCW.
[ 2020 c 38 § 1; 2012 c 176 § 8; 2009 c 204 § 1; 2003 c 388 § 3; 2002 c 128 § 4; 2000 c 107 § 212; 1998 c 190 § 112; 1993 sp.s. c 2 § 67; 1988 c 36 § 50; 1987 c 506 § 16; 1985 c 155 § 2; 1980 c 78 § 17. Formerly RCW 77.12.055.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 §§ 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Effective date—Intent, construction—Savings—Severability—1980 c 78: See notes following RCW 77.04.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.15 - Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Code. › 77.15.077 - Fish and wildlife officers—Private law enforcement off-duty employment—Guidelines.

RCW 77.15.077
Fish and wildlife officers—Private law enforcement off-duty employment—Guidelines.
Washington fish and wildlife officers may engage in private law enforcement off-duty employment, in uniform or in plainclothes for private benefit, subject to guidelines adopted by the chief of fish and wildlife enforcement. These guidelines must ensure that the integrity and professionalism of the Washington fish and wildlife enforcement is preserved. Use of Washington fish and wildlife officer's uniforms shall be considered de minimis use of state property. For any employment authorized under this section that occurs on reservation, trust, or allotted lands of a federally recognized Indian tribe, a Washington fish and wildlife officer must have taken the violence de-escalation and mental health training provided by the criminal justice training commission, including the curriculum of the history of police interactions with Native American communities; and the private employer must have obtained permission from the affected federally recognized Indian tribe.
[ 2023 c 250 § 1.]