Why the change is needed: Washburn Island Pond regulations are governed by both WDFW and the Colville Tribe. Rules consistency is important, but in this case tribal rules allow combustible motors to be attached, while WDFW rules prohibit attachment, even though in both cases fishing is by electric motor only. Many of the anglers that use Washburn Island Pond have larger boats, which makes removal of combustible engines not feasible.
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Okanogan County WDFW Enforcement (James Brown)
Colville Tribal Resident Fish Biologist (Bret Nine)
Wells Wildlife Area Manager (Dan Peterson)
Douglas County PUD Wildlife Biologist (James McGhee)
Describe their support and/or concerns:
All are in support of keeping current rules allowing electric motors only to fish, but all recognize the need to make rule consistent which would allow combustion motors to be attached, but not used.
Submitted by: JATEFF, ROBERT J — TWISP, WA
Date submitted: 07/02/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Recommended for Public Comment Reference ID: DFW313221
Rule Change Recommendation Short Title Align Washburn Island Pond rules with Colville Tribes
Rules Category Eastern Washington and Columbia Region Freshwater
Type of Rule Change Proposal Conservation
County or Location Information Okanogan County
Short Description Internal combustion motors may be attached to floating devices, but must not be used.
Explanation Washburn Island Pond regulations are governed by both DFW and the Colville Tribe. Rule consistency is important, and in this case tribal rules allow combustible motors to be attached, while DFW rules prohibit attachment, even though both agencies prohibit fishing by combustible motor. Many of the anglers that use Washburn Island Pond have larger boats, which make the removal of combustible motors unfeasible.
