reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.075 - Fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account.

RCW 77.12.075
Fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account.
The fish and wildlife 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 fish and wildlife and all legislative transfers, gifts, grants, and federal funds designated for use in conjunction with a good neighbor agreement implemented by the department of fish and wildlife 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 director 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. The fish and wildlife federal lands revolving account is an interest-bearing account and the interest must be credited to the account.
[ 2018 c 258 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2018 c 258: See note following RCW 79.02.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.077 - Use of dogs to hunt/pursue black bear, cougar, bobcat—Rules—Training program—Nonlethal pursuit.

RCW 77.12.077
Use of dogs to hunt/pursue black bear, cougar, bobcat—Rules—Training program—Nonlethal pursuit.
(1) The commission shall adopt by rule a process and criteria to select persons who may act as agents of the state for the purpose of using one or more dogs to hunt or pursue black bear, cougar, or bobcat to protect livestock, domestic animals, private property, or the public safety. The commission rule must outline the requirements an applicant must comply with when applying for the program including, but not limited to, a criminal background check.
(2) The department shall administer a training program to enable persons who have been selected pursuant to subsection (1) of this section to train dogs for use consistent with this section. The purpose of this program is to provide dog training opportunities using nonlethal pursuit.
[ 2019 c 226 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.085 - Liberalized bag limits for bass, walleye, and channel catfish.

RCW 77.12.085
Liberalized bag limits for bass, walleye, and channel catfish.
The commission shall adopt rules to liberalize bag limits for bass, walleye, and channel catfish in all anadromous waters of the state in order to reduce the predation risk to salmon smolts.
[ 2019 c 290 § 2.]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2019 c 290: "(1) The legislature finds that the population of southern resident killer whales has declined in recent years and currently stands at a thirty-year low of seventy-four animals.
(2) The governor convened the southern resident killer whale task force after the 2018 legislative session to study and identify actions that could be taken to help sustain and recover this important species. In the course of its work, the task force found that chinook salmon compose the largest portion of the whales' diet, and are therefore critical to the recovery of the species. Further, several runs of chinook salmon in Washington state are listed under the federal endangered species act, making chinook recovery all the more urgent.
(3) The task force identified four overarching southern resident killer whale recovery goals and adopted several recommendations for specific actions under each goal. Goal one identified by the task force is to increase chinook abundance, and actions under that goal relate to habitat protection, protection of chinook prey, such as forage fish, and reducing impacts of nonnative chinook predators.
(4) To address the need identified by the task force to increase chinook abundance, the legislature intends to take initial, important steps consistent with recommendations made by the governor's southern resident killer whale task force." [ 2019 c 290 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.140 - Acquisition or sale of wildlife.

RCW 77.12.140
Acquisition or sale of wildlife.
The director, acting in a manner not inconsistent with criteria established by the commission, may obtain by purchase, gift, or exchange and may sell or transfer wildlife and their eggs for stocking, research, or propagation.
[ 1987 c 506 § 23; 1980 c 78 § 28; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.140. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 24; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-34.]
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. › 77.12.152 - Commission may designate fishing areas.

RCW 77.12.152
Commission may designate fishing areas.
The commission may designate the boundaries of fishing areas by driving piling or by establishing monuments or by description of landmarks or section lines and directional headings.
[ 1995 1st sp.s. c 2 § 14 (Referendum Bill No. 45, approved November 7, 1995); 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 18; 1955 c 12 § 75.08.120. Prior: 1949 c 112 § 10; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-209. Formerly RCW 75.08.120.]
NOTES:
Referral to electorate—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 77.04.013.
Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 43.17.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.154 - Right of entry—Aircraft operated by department.

RCW 77.12.154
Right of entry—Aircraft operated by department.
The director, fish and wildlife officers, ex officio fish and wildlife officers, and department employees may enter upon any land or waters and remain there while performing their duties without liability for trespass.
It is lawful for aircraft operated by the department to land and take off from the beaches or waters of the state.
[ 1998 c 190 § 71; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 19; 1955 c 12 § 75.08.160. Prior: 1949 c 112 § 13; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-212. Formerly RCW 75.08.160.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.184 - Deposit of moneys from various activities—Production of regulation booklets.

RCW 77.12.184
Deposit of moneys from various activities—Production of regulation booklets.
(1) The department shall deposit all moneys received from the following activities into the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3):
(a) The sale of interpretive, recreational, historical, educational, and informational literature and materials;
(b) The sale of advertisements in regulation pamphlets and other appropriate mediums; and
(c) Enrollment fees in department-sponsored educational training events.
(2) Moneys collected under subsection (1) of this section shall be spent primarily for producing regulation booklets for users and for the development, production, reprinting, and distribution of informational and educational materials. The department may also spend these moneys for necessary expenses associated with training activities, and other activities as determined by the director.
(3) Regulation pamphlets may be subsidized through appropriate advertising, but must be made available free of charge to the users.
(4) The director may enter into joint ventures with other agencies and organizations to generate revenue for providing public information and education on wildlife and hunting and fishing rules.
[ 2020 c 148 § 7; 2009 c 333 § 31; 2000 c 252 § 1.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.190 - Use of moneys in the limited fish and wildlife account and fish, wildlife, and conservation account.

RCW 77.12.190
Use of moneys in the limited fish and wildlife account and fish, wildlife, and conservation account.
Moneys in the limited fish and wildlife account and fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170 may be used only for the purposes of this title, including the payment of principal and interest on bonds issued for capital projects.
[ 2020 c 148 § 8; 2009 c 333 § 32; 1991 sp.s. c 31 § 17; 1987 c 506 § 27; 1980 c 78 § 34; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.190. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 28; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-38.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
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. › 77.12.201 - Counties may elect to receive an amount in lieu of taxes—County to record collections for violations of law or rules—Deposit.

RCW 77.12.201
Counties may elect to receive an amount in lieu of taxes—County to record collections for violations of law or rules—Deposit.
The legislative authority of a county may elect, by giving written notice to the director and the treasurer prior to January 1st of any year, to obtain for the following year an amount in lieu of real property taxes on game lands as provided in RCW 77.12.203. Upon the election, the county shall keep a record of all fines, forfeitures, reimbursements, and costs assessed and collected, in whole or in part, under this title for violations of law or rules adopted pursuant to this title, with the exception of the 2015-2017 and 2017-2019 fiscal biennia, and shall monthly remit an amount equal to the amount collected to the state treasurer for deposit in the state general fund. The election shall continue until the department is notified differently prior to January 1st of any year.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 1 § 983; 2016 sp.s. c 36 § 947; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 4 § 998; 2012 2nd sp.s. c 7 § 923; 2009 c 479 § 63; 1987 c 506 § 29. Prior: 1984 c 258 § 335; 1984 c 214 § 1; 1980 c 78 § 36; 1977 ex.s. c 59 § 1; 1965 ex.s. c 97 § 2.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 1: See note following RCW 43.41.455.
Effective date—2016 sp.s. c 36: See note following RCW 18.20.430.
Effective dates—2013 2nd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective date—2009 c 479: See note following RCW 2.56.030.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Court Improvement Act of 1984—Effective dates—Severability—Short title—1984 c 258: See notes following RCW 3.30.010.
Intent—1984 c 258: See note following RCW 3.34.130.
Effective date—1984 c 214: "This act takes effect on January 1, 1985." [ 1984 c 214 § 3.]
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. › 77.12.203 - In lieu payments authorized—Procedure—Game lands defined.

RCW 77.12.203
In lieu payments authorized—Procedure—Game lands defined.
(1) Notwithstanding RCW 84.36.010 or other statutes to the contrary, the state treasurer, on behalf of the department, must distribute to counties by April 30th of each year on game lands, regardless of acreage, in each county, if requested by an election under RCW 77.12.201, an amount in lieu of real property taxes equal to that amount paid on similar parcels of open space land taxable under chapter 84.34 RCW or the greater of seventy cents per acre per year or the amount paid in 1984 plus an additional amount for control of noxious weeds equal to that which would be paid if such lands were privately owned. This amount may not be assessed or paid on department buildings, structures, facilities, game farms, fish hatcheries, water access sites, tidelands, or public fishing areas.
(2) "Game lands," as used in this section and RCW 77.12.201, means those tracts, regardless of acreage, owned in fee by the department and used for wildlife habitat and public recreational purposes. All lands purchased for wildlife habitat, public access, or recreation purposes with federal funds in the Snake River drainage basin are considered game lands regardless of acreage.
(3) This section does not apply to lands transferred after April 23, 1990, to the department from other state agencies.
(4) The county must 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 must distribute the amount received under this section for weed control to the appropriate weed district.
[ 2021 c 184 § 1; 2019 c 415 § 983; 2018 c 299 § 913; 2017 3rd sp.s. c 1 § 984; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 4 § 971; 2014 c 55 § 1; 2013 2nd sp.s. c 4 § 999; 2012 2nd sp.s. c 7 § 924; 2005 c 303 § 14; 1990 1st ex.s. c 15 § 11; 1984 c 214 § 2; 1980 c 78 § 37; 1965 ex.s. c 97 § 3.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2019 c 415: See note following RCW 28B.20.476.
Effective date—2018 c 299: See note following RCW 43.41.433.
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 1: See note following RCW 43.41.455.
Effective dates—2015 3rd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 28B.15.069.
Effective date—2014 c 55: "This act takes effect July 1, 2015." [ 2014 c 55 § 2.]
Effective dates—2013 2nd sp.s. c 4: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective date—2012 2nd sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 2.68.020.
Effective date—2005 c 303 §§ 1-14: See note following RCW 79A.15.010.
Limitations—1990 1st ex.s. c 15: "Amounts saved by operation of section 11 of this act during the 1989-91 fiscal biennium may be used only for financing capital facilities." [ 1990 1st ex.s. c 15 § 12.]
Severability—1990 1st ex.s. c 15: See note following RCW 43.99H.010.
Effective date—1984 c 214: See note following RCW 77.12.201.
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. › 77.12.204 - Grazing lands—Fish and wildlife goals—Implementation.

RCW 77.12.204
Grazing lands—Fish and wildlife goals—Implementation.
The department of fish and wildlife shall implement practices necessary to meet the standards developed under *RCW 79.01.295 on agency-owned and managed agricultural and grazing lands. The standards may be modified on a site-specific basis as necessary and as determined by the department of fish and wildlife to achieve the goals established under *RCW 79.01.295(1). Existing lessees shall be provided an opportunity to participate in any site-specific field review. Department agricultural and grazing leases issued after December 31, 1994, shall be subject to practices to achieve the standards that meet those developed pursuant to *RCW 79.01.295.
This section shall in no way prevent the department of fish and wildlife from managing its lands according to the provisions of RCW 77.04.012, 77.12.210, or rules adopted pursuant to this chapter.
[ 2001 c 253 § 17; 2000 c 107 § 217; 1993 sp.s. c 4 § 6.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 79.01.295 was recodified as RCW 79.13.610 pursuant to 2003 c 334 § 557.
Findings—Grazing lands—1993 sp.s. c 4: See RCW 79.13.600.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.210 - Department property—Management, sale.

RCW 77.12.210
Department property—Management, sale.
The director shall maintain and manage real or personal property owned, leased, or held by the department and shall control the construction of buildings, structures, and improvements in or on the property. The director may adopt rules for the operation and maintenance of the property.
The commission may authorize the director to sell, lease, convey, or grant concessions upon real or personal property under the control of the department. This includes the authority to sell timber, gravel, sand, and other materials or products from real property held by the department, and to sell or lease the department's real or personal property or grant concessions or rights-of-way for roads or utilities in the property. Oil and gas resources owned by the state which lie below lands owned, leased, or held by the department shall be offered for lease by the commissioner of public lands pursuant to chapter 79.14 RCW with the proceeds being deposited in the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3): PROVIDED, That the commissioner of public lands shall condition such leases at the request of the department to protect wildlife and its habitat.
If the commission determines that real or personal property held by the department cannot be used advantageously by the department, the director may dispose of that property if it is in the public interest.
If the state acquired real property with use limited to specific purposes, the director may negotiate terms for the return of the property to the donor or grantor. Other real property shall be sold to the highest bidder at public auction. After appraisal, notice of the auction shall be published at least once a week for two successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation within the county where the property is located at least twenty days prior to sale.
Proceeds from the sales shall be deposited in the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3).
[ 2020 c 148 § 9; 2009 c 333 § 33; 2000 c 107 § 218; 1987 c 506 § 30; 1980 c 78 § 38; 1969 ex.s. c 73 § 1; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.210. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 30; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-40.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
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. › 77.12.220 - Acquisition or transfer of property.

RCW 77.12.220
Acquisition or transfer of property.
For purposes of this title, the commission may make agreements to obtain real or personal property or to transfer or convey property held by the state to the United States or its agencies or instrumentalities, units of local government of this state, public service companies, or other persons, if in the judgment of the commission and the attorney general the transfer and conveyance is consistent with public interest. For purposes of this section, "local government" means any city, town, county, special district, municipal corporation, or quasi-municipal corporation.
If the commission agrees to a transfer or conveyance under this section or to a sale or return of real property under RCW 77.12.210, the director shall certify, with the attorney general, to the governor that the agreement has been made. The certification shall describe the real property. The governor then may execute and the secretary of state attest and deliver to the appropriate entity or person the instrument necessary to fulfill the agreement.
[ 2000 c 107 § 219; 1987 c 506 § 31; 1980 c 78 § 39; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.220. Prior: 1949 c 205 § 3; 1947 c 275 § 31; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5992-41.]
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. › 77.12.230 - Local assessments against department property.

RCW 77.12.230
Local assessments against department property.
The director may pay lawful local improvement district assessments for projects that may benefit wildlife or wildlife-oriented recreation made against lands held by the state for department purposes. The payments may be made from money appropriated from the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3) to the department.
[ 2020 c 148 § 10; 2009 c 333 § 34; 1987 c 506 § 32; 1980 c 78 § 40; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.230. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 32; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-42.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
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. › 77.12.235 - Bridge jumping hazard signs.

RCW 77.12.235
Bridge jumping hazard signs.
(1) Before entering into any contract for the construction of or replacement of any bridge on department controlled land, the director must consider whether to require the installation of informational signs that address the hazards of diving or jumping off the bridge as part of the contract. These signs are meant to provide more information than just a "no jumping" sign so that people can better understand the hazards related to a particular location. Signs with information on the hazard of cold-water shock that leads to drowning are encouraged to be installed in locations where people might otherwise think a location is safe for swimming. Signs under this section may include the statewide 988 suicide prevention hotline.
(2) Signs created under this section for placement within the right-of-way of the state highway system may not conflict with provisions of the manual on uniform traffic control devices or existing state laws related to placement and design of signs that are placed along transportation corridors.
(3) This section does not create a private right of action by, or a legal duty to, any party, and may not be used to impose liability on the department if a sign has or has not been erected on its property. The state of Washington, including all of its agencies, subdivisions, employees, and agents, shall not be liable in tort for any violation of chapter 54, Laws of 2023, notwithstanding any other provision of law.
[ 2023 c 54 § 10.]
NOTES:
Short title—Intent—Finding—2023 c 54: See notes following RCW 35.21.095.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.240 - Authority to take wildlife—Disposition.

RCW 77.12.240
Authority to take wildlife—Disposition.
(1) The department may authorize the removal or killing of wildlife that is destroying or injuring property, or when it is necessary for wildlife management or research.
(2) The department shall dispose of wildlife taken or possessed by them under this title in the manner determined by the director to be in the best interest of the state. Proceeds from sales shall be deposited in the state treasury to be credited to the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3).
[ 2020 c 148 § 11; 2009 c 333 § 63; 1989 c 197 § 1; 1987 c 506 § 33; 1980 c 78 § 41; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.240. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 33; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-43.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Effective date—Application—2009 c 333 §§ 53-66: See notes following RCW 77.36.010.
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. › 77.12.262 - Fish and wildlife officers compensation insurance—Medical aid.

RCW 77.12.262
Fish and wildlife officers compensation insurance—Medical aid.
The director shall provide compensation insurance for fish and wildlife officers, insuring these employees against injury or death in the performance of enforcement duties not covered under the workers' compensation act of the state. The beneficiaries and the compensation and benefits under the compensation insurance shall be the same as provided in chapter 51.32 RCW, and the compensation insurance also shall provide for medical aid and hospitalization to the extent and amount as provided in RCW 51.36.010 and 51.36.020.
[ 2000 c 107 § 8; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 20; 1971 ex.s. c 289 § 73; 1953 c 207 § 14. Formerly RCW 75.08.206, 43.25.047.]
NOTES:
Effective date—Severability—1971 ex.s. c 289: See RCW 51.98.060 and 51.98.070.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.264 - Fish and wildlife officers—Relieved from active duty when injured—Compensation.

RCW 77.12.264
Fish and wildlife officers—Relieved from active duty when injured—Compensation.
The director shall relieve from active duty fish and wildlife officers who are injured in the performance of their official duties to such an extent as to be incapable of active service. While relieved from active duty, the employees shall receive one-half of their salary less any compensation received through the provisions of RCW 41.26.470, 41.40.200, 41.40.220, and 77.12.262.
[ 2006 c 39 § 2; 2001 c 253 § 18; 2000 c 107 § 9; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 22; 1957 c 216 § 1. Formerly RCW 75.08.208, 75.08.024.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2006 c 39: See note following RCW 41.26.470.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.266 - Relocation or introduction of wolves, coyotes, lynx, bobcats, and other big game—Notice and public hearing.

RCW 77.12.266
Relocation or introduction of wolves, coyotes, lynx, bobcats, and other big game—Notice and public hearing.
(1) The department must provide notice and hold a public hearing prior to department personnel relocating or introducing any wolves, coyotes, lynx, bobcats, and animals defined as big game in RCW 77.08.030, where the action is intended for population enhancement.
(2)(a) The notice of the public hearing must be made at least thirty days prior to the date of the hearing. The notice must state the public hearing date, time, and location, and provide a brief explanation of the department's proposed action. The brief explanation must include the species of wildlife, the estimated number of animals, the general location where the wildlife will be released, and the potential range the wildlife is likely to roam.
(b) A press release of the notice of the public hearing must be sent to media outlets providing news services to the communities that are likely to be impacted by the wildlife's presence. The notice of the public hearing must be posted on the department's website, and if possible, posted on a local government or community website near where the wildlife will be relocated or introduced; and be provided in writing to the town, city, or county legislative members and the mayor or county executive of any location that is likely to be impacted by the presence of the wildlife.
(3) The public hearing must be open to the public and held within the community most likely to be impacted by the presence of the relocated or introduced wildlife. The presiding official or department personnel must present information explaining the department's proposed actions and related management of the wildlife in sufficient detail to provide an understanding of the reasons for the proposed movement and potential impacts of the action in or near the community. The hearing must be conducted by the presiding official to afford interested persons the opportunity to present comments. Written or electronic submissions will also be accepted and included in the department's hearing record.
[ 2018 c 212 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.272 - Elk hoof disease—Program to monitor and assess causes of and potential solutions for—Washington State University college of veterinary medicine designated as state lead.

RCW 77.12.272
Elk hoof disease—Program to monitor and assess causes of and potential solutions for—Washington State University college of veterinary medicine designated as state lead.
Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the legislature designates Washington State University college of veterinary medicine as the state lead in developing a program to monitor and assess causes of and potential solutions for elk hoof disease. The college must establish an elk monitoring system in southwest Washington in order to carry out this mission. In conducting this work, the college must work collaboratively with entities including the department, the state veterinarian, and any tribes with interest in participating. The college must provide regular updates, at minimum on an annual basis, to the appropriate committees of the legislature and the commission on its findings, program needs, and any recommendations.
[ 2017 c 159 § 3.]
NOTES:
Finding—Required rule making—2017 c 159: See notes following RCW 77.12.047.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.275 - Agreements with department of defense.

RCW 77.12.275
Agreements with department of defense.
The commission may negotiate agreements with the United States department of defense to coordinate fishing in state waters over which the department of defense has assumed control.
[ 1995 1st sp.s. c 2 § 7 (Referendum Bill No. 45, approved November 7, 1995); 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 8; 1955 c 12 § 75.08.025. Prior: 1953 c 207 § 11. Formerly RCW 75.08.025.]
NOTES:
Referral to electorate—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 77.04.013.
Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 43.17.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.285 - Agreements with United States to protect Columbia river fish—Fish cultural stations and protective devices.

RCW 77.12.285
Agreements with United States to protect Columbia river fish—Fish cultural stations and protective devices.
(1) The commission may enter into agreements with and receive funds from the United States for the construction, maintenance, and operation of fish cultural stations, laboratories, and devices in the Columbia river basin for improvement of feeding and spawning conditions for fish, for the protection of migratory fish from irrigation projects and for facilitating free migration of fish over obstructions.
(2) The director and the department may acquire by gift, purchase, lease, easement, or condemnation the use of lands where the construction or improvement is to be carried on by the United States.
[ 2000 c 107 § 6; 1995 1st sp.s. c 2 § 8 (Referendum Bill No. 45, approved November 7, 1995); 1993 sp.s. c 2 § 23; 1987 c 506 § 94; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 12; 1955 c 12 § 75.16.060. Prior: 1949 c 112 § 52; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-326. Formerly RCW 75.08.055, 75.16.060.]
NOTES:
Referral to electorate—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 77.04.013.
Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 43.17.020.
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.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.320 - Agreements for purposes related to fish, shellfish, and wildlife—Acceptance of compensation, gifts, grants—Indemnification.

RCW 77.12.320
Agreements for purposes related to fish, shellfish, and wildlife—Acceptance of compensation, gifts, grants—Indemnification.
(1) The commission may make agreements with persons, political subdivisions of this state, or the United States or its agencies or instrumentalities, regarding fish, shellfish, and wildlife-oriented recreation and the propagation, protection, conservation, and control of fish, shellfish, and wildlife.
(2) The director may make written agreements with the owners or lessees of real or personal property to provide for the use of the property for fish, shellfish, and wildlife-oriented recreation. The director may adopt rules governing the conduct of persons in or on the real property.
(3) The director may accept compensation for fish, shellfish, and wildlife losses or gifts or grants of personal property for use by the department.
(4) The commission may indemnify the United States and its agencies as a condition of securing federal funds for purposes of fish, shellfish, and wildlife projects.
[ 2021 c 182 § 1; 2001 c 253 § 19; 1987 c 506 § 41; 1980 c 78 § 50; 1975 1st ex.s. c 207 § 1; 1974 ex.s. c 67 § 1; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.320. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 37; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-47.]
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. › 77.12.323 - Special wildlife account—Investments.

RCW 77.12.323
Special wildlife account—Investments.
(1) There is established in the state treasury a special wildlife account. Moneys received under RCW 77.12.320 as now or hereafter amended as compensation for wildlife losses shall be deposited in the state treasury to be credited to the special wildlife account.
(2) The state treasurer may invest and reinvest the surplus as provided by RCW 43.84.080.
[ 2020 c 148 § 12; 2012 c 187 § 7; 2009 c 333 § 35; 1987 c 506 § 42; 1982 c 10 § 15. Prior: 1981 c 3 § 43; 1980 c 78 § 51; 1975 1st ex.s. c 207 § 2.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
Legislative findings and intent—1987 c 506: See note following RCW 77.04.020.
Severability—1982 c 10: See note following RCW 6.13.080.
Effective dates—Severability—1981 c 3: See notes following RCW 43.33A.010.
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. › 77.12.325 - Cooperation with Oregon to assure yields of Columbia river fish, shellfish, and wildlife.

RCW 77.12.325
Cooperation with Oregon to assure yields of Columbia river fish, shellfish, and wildlife.
The commission may cooperate with the Oregon fish and wildlife commission in the adoption of rules to ensure an annual yield of fish, shellfish, and wildlife on the Columbia river and to prevent the taking of fish, shellfish, and wildlife at places or times that might endanger fish, shellfish, and wildlife.
[ 2001 c 253 § 20; 1980 c 78 § 52; 1959 c 315 § 2.]
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. › 77.12.330 - Exclusive fishing waters for youths.

RCW 77.12.330
Exclusive fishing waters for youths.
The commission may establish by rule exclusive fishing waters for minors within specified ages.
[ 1980 c 78 § 53; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.330. Prior: 1947 c 275 § 38; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5992-48.]
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. › 77.12.360 - Withdrawal of state land from lease—Compensation.

RCW 77.12.360
Withdrawal of state land from lease—Compensation.
Upon written request of the department, the department of natural resources may withdraw from lease state-owned lands described in the request. The request shall bear the endorsement of the county legislative authority if the lands were acquired under *RCW 76.12.030 or 76.12.080. Withdrawals shall conform to the state outdoor recreation plan. If the lands are held for the benefit of the common school fund or another fund, the department shall pay compensation equal to the lease value of the lands to the appropriate fund.
[ 1980 c 78 § 54; 1969 ex.s. c 129 § 3; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.360. Prior: 1947 c 130 § 1; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 8136-10.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 76.12.030 and 76.12.080 were recodified as RCW 79.22.040 and 79.22.020, respectively, by 2003 c 334 § 245.
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. › 77.12.370 - Withdrawal of state land from lease—County procedures, approval, hearing.

RCW 77.12.370
Withdrawal of state land from lease—County procedures, approval, hearing.
Prior to the forwarding of a request needing endorsement under RCW 77.12.360, the director shall present the request to the legislative authority of the county in which the lands are located for its approval. The legislative authority, before acting on the request, may call a public hearing. The hearing shall take place within thirty days after presentation of the request to the legislative authority.
The director shall publish notice of the public hearing called by the legislative authority in a newspaper of general circulation within the county at least once a week for two successive weeks prior to the hearing. The notice shall contain a copy of the request and the time and place of the hearing.
The chair of the county legislative authority shall preside at the public hearing. The proceedings shall be informal and all persons shall have a reasonable opportunity to be heard.
Within ten days after the hearing, the county legislative authority shall endorse its decision on the request for withdrawal. The decision is final and not subject to appeal.
[ 2013 c 23 § 239; 1987 c 506 § 43; 1980 c 78 § 55; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.370. Prior: 1947 c 130 § 2; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 8136-11.]
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. › 77.12.380 - Withdrawal of state land from lease—Actions by commissioner of public lands.

RCW 77.12.380
Withdrawal of state land from lease—Actions by commissioner of public lands.
Upon receipt of a request under RCW 77.12.360, the commissioner of public lands shall determine if the withdrawal would benefit the people of the state. If the withdrawal would be beneficial, the commissioner shall have the lands appraised for their lease value. Before withdrawal, the department shall transmit to the commissioner a voucher authorizing payment from the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3) in favor of the fund for which the lands are held. The payment shall equal the amount of the lease value for the duration of the withdrawal.
[ 2020 c 148 § 13; 2009 c 333 § 36; 1987 c 506 § 44; 1980 c 78 § 56; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.380. Prior: 1947 c 130 § 3; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 8136-12.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
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. › 77.12.390 - Withdrawal of state land from lease—Payment.

RCW 77.12.390
Withdrawal of state land from lease—Payment.
Upon receipt of a voucher under RCW 77.12.380, the commissioner of public lands shall withdraw the lands from lease. The commissioner shall forward the voucher to the state treasurer, who shall draw a warrant against the fish, wildlife, and conservation account created in RCW 77.12.170(3) in favor of the fund for which the withdrawn lands are held.
[ 2020 c 148 § 14; 2009 c 333 § 37; 1987 c 506 § 45; 1980 c 78 § 57; 1973 c 106 § 35; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.390. Prior: 1947 c 130 § 4; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 8136-13.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—2020 c 148: See notes following RCW 77.12.170.
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. › 77.12.395 - Wolves—Conflict mitigation guidelines.

RCW 77.12.395
Wolves—Conflict mitigation guidelines.
The department shall implement conflict mitigation guidelines that distinguish between wolf recovery regions, identified in the 2011 wolf conservation and management plan, that are at or above the regional recovery objective and wolf recovery regions that are below the regional recovery objective. In developing conflict management [mitigation] guidelines, the department shall consider the provisions of its 2011 wolf recovery and management plan, and all regional plans must include proactive nonlethal deterrents regardless of listing status.
[ 2019 c 450 § 2.]
NOTES:
Intent—Finding—2019 c 450: "(1) It is the legislature's intent to support full recovery of gray wolves in Washington state in accordance with the department of fish and wildlife's 2011 wolf recovery and management plan and state law. It is also the legislature's intent to support the livestock industry and rural lifestyles and ensure that state agencies and residents have the tools necessary to support coexistence with wolves.
(2) The wolf plan requires that the department of fish and wildlife conduct a review of the effectiveness of the plan's implementation every five years. The legislature finds that because the regional recovery goals have been exceeded in the eastern Washington recovery region, but not yet in other regions, it is timely for the department of fish and wildlife to conduct a periodic status review and recommend to the state fish and wildlife commission whether a change in status is warranted.
(3) Furthermore, the legislature recognizes that management of wolf-livestock conflict is key to both wolf recovery and public acceptance of wolves in rural areas and that as the wolf population grows, and even after it achieves recovery, stable and adequate funding for nonlethal wolf deterrence will be needed to support livestock producers and the livestock industry and minimize the need for lethal removal of wolves. As such, it is the intent of the legislature, regardless of the listing status of gray wolves, to continue to sufficiently fund nonlethal deterrents for minimizing depredation of livestock by wolves. Proactive deterrence and community collaboration, as set forth in RCW 16.76.020, are necessary to reduce conflict between wolves and livestock and will be important for maintaining the economic viability of the livestock industry, the state's wolf populations, and public acceptance of wolves in northeast Washington after wolves have recovered and have been delisted.
(4) Further, the legislature intends to expand funding and personnel resources in the department of fish and wildlife for similar nonlethal deterrent efforts to mitigate conflicts statewide, as wolves recover in the remainder of the state beyond northeast Washington." [ 2019 c 450 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.420 - Improvement of conditions for growth of game fish.

RCW 77.12.420
Improvement of conditions for growth of game fish.
The director may spend moneys to improve natural growing conditions for fish by constructing fishways, installing screens, and removing obstructions to migratory fish. The eradication of undesirable fish shall be authorized by the commission. The director may enter into cooperative agreements with state, county, municipal, and federal agencies, and with private individuals for these purposes.
[ 1987 c 506 § 46; 1980 c 78 § 59; 1955 c 36 § 77.12.420. Prior: 1947 c 127 § 1; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5944-1.]
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. › 77.12.451 - Director may take or sell fish or shellfish—Restrictions on sale of salmon.

RCW 77.12.451
Director may take or sell fish or shellfish—Restrictions on sale of salmon.
(1) The director may take or remove any species of fish or shellfish from the waters or beaches of the state.
(2) The director may sell food fish or shellfish caught or taken during department test fishing operations.
(3) The director shall not sell inedible salmon for human consumption. Salmon and carcasses may be given to state institutions or schools or to economically depressed people, unless the salmon are unfit for human consumption. Salmon not fit for human consumption may be sold by the director for animal food, fish food, or for industrial purposes.
(4) In the sale of surplus salmon from state hatcheries, the director shall require that a portion of the surplus salmon be processed and returned to the state by the purchaser. The processed salmon shall be fit for human consumption and in a form suitable for distribution to individuals. The department shall establish the required percentage at a level that does not discourage competitive bidding for the surplus salmon. The measure of the percentage is the combined value of all of the surplus salmon sold. The department of social and health services shall distribute the processed salmon to economically depressed individuals and state institutions pursuant to rules adopted by the department of social and health services.
[ 2015 c 225 § 115; 1990 c 36 § 1; 1985 c 28 § 1; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 26; 1979 c 141 § 382; 1969 ex.s. c 16 § 2; 1965 ex.s. c 72 § 1; 1955 c 12 § 75.12.130. Prior: 1949 c 112 § 41; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-315. Formerly RCW 75.08.255, 75.12.130.]
NOTES:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.453 - Wanapum (Sokulk) Indians—Permits to take salmon and other freshwater food fish.

RCW 77.12.453
Wanapum (Sokulk) Indians—Permits to take salmon and other freshwater food fish.
The director may issue permits to members of the Wanapum band of Indians to take salmon and other freshwater food fish for ceremonial and subsistence purposes. The department shall establish the areas in which the permits are valid and shall regulate the times for and manner of taking the salmon and other freshwater food fish. This section does not create a right to fish commercially.
[ 2018 c 235 § 14; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 27; 1981 c 251 § 2. Formerly RCW 75.08.265, 75.12.310.]
NOTES:
Legislative findings—1981 c 251: "The legislature finds that the Sokulk Indians, otherwise known as the Wanapum band of Indians, have made a significant effort to maintain their traditional tribal culture, including the activity of taking salmon for ceremonial and subsistence purposes. The legislature further finds that previously the state has encouraged ceremonial and subsistence fishing by the Wanapums by chapter 210, Laws of 1939 and other permission. Therefore, the intent of the legislature in enacting RCW 75.08.265 is to recognize the cultural importance of salmon fishing to only the Wanapum Indians by authorizing these people a ceremonial and subsistence fishery, while also preserving the state's ability to conserve and manage the salmon resource." [ 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 62; 1981 c 251 § 1. Formerly RCW 75.12.300.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 77 - Fish and Wildlife › Chapter 77.12 - Powers and Duties. › 77.12.455 - Prevention and suppression of diseases and pests.

RCW 77.12.455
Prevention and suppression of diseases and pests.
The commission may prohibit the introduction, transportation or transplanting of fish, shellfish, organisms, material, or other equipment which in the commission's judgment may transmit any disease or pests affecting fish or shellfish.
[ 2001 c 253 § 22; 1995 1st sp.s. c 2 § 16 (Referendum Bill No. 45, approved November 7, 1995); 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 29; 1955 c 12 § 75.16.030. Prior: 1949 c 112 § 43; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-317. Formerly RCW 75.08.285, 75.16.030.]
NOTES:
Referral to electorate—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 77.04.013.
Effective date—1995 1st sp.s. c 2: See note following RCW 43.17.020.