Summary of proposed rule
The rule proposal changes some recreational clam, mussel, and oyster harvest seasons. These changes are based on recent clam and oyster population survey data, recreational harvest projections, and negotiations affecting intertidal Treaty and non-Treaty fisheries, along with public health considerations. Seasons will be opened or extended on some public beaches and closed or shortened on others.
Scope and rationale for proposed rule
WDFW must annually amend recreational clam, mussel, and oyster season rules on some public tidelands. Such amendments are designed to perpetuate shellfish resources while maximizing recreational fishing opportunity and protect public health. WDFW proposes to amend WACs 220-330-110 and 220-330-140 in response to shellfish population changes, shifts in recreational effort, conservation issues, fluctuating annual tidal calendar, and negotiations with Treaty tribes and other state agencies.
Documents
- CR-103P – filed as WSR 24-06-062 on
CR-103P supplemental documents
Public hearing
February 27, 2024 at 5:30 pm.
This meeting will take place via Zoom. The public may participate in the meeting but must register in advance. To register for the meeting, please log onto this website - https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ Ak1UJmC4RGqunwoFTGufZA
State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
For more information
Staff Contact: Camille Speck at Camille.Speck@dfw.wa.gov.
Public comments
To view and submit comments, please visit the 2024 Clam and Oyster Season engagement page.
You may also leave comments by sending an email to 2024clamandoyster@publicinput.com or by leaving a voicemail message at 855-925-2801 and entering project code 5739.
Comments will be accepted until the end of the comment period on February 27, 2024.