The control of undesirable fish populations using
chemical piscicides is a valuable and cost effective
management tool for providing quality fishing opportunities
and protecting native species in many waters of the
state.
Specific Policies:
All lake and stream rehabilitations will follow
state and federal laws.
All proposed rehabilitations will adhere to state
water quality requirements (WAC 173-201A), the Washington
Pesticide Control Act (RCW 15.58), State Environmental
Policy Act (SEPA) and federal Clean Water Act.
All applicable environmental, health and
safety regulations will be followed.
All proposed rehabilitations will follow and
adhere to chemical piscicides labeling restrictions
and chemical materials safety data sheet requirements
to ensure protection of the public, Department
personnel and environment during rehabilitation
treatments.
Waters will not be treated in ways which would
cause significant negative impacts to fish or wildlife
which are state or federally listed as Threatened,
Endangered, Sensitive or Candidate Species.
An exception may be granted in the case of a biological
emergency.
The public will be part of the decision-making
process.
A public meeting will be held in the vicinity of
the proposed rehabilitation(s) before a final decision
is made.
An appropriate assessment of existing fish
populations and associated risks will be undertaken
for all natural bodies of water proposed for treatment
if they have not been previously treated.
