Summary of proposed rule
WDFW is proposing a new WAC chapter implementing RCW 77.57.
Scope and rationale for proposed rule
This proposal would create and populate a new chapter in WAC (220-670) that defines general passability and protection standards for new and existing fishways and water diversions. Consideration of incorporating climate change into the design of new water crossing structures is detailed within the standards as well. The proposal codifies current WDFW practices of using the agency’s fish passage inventory and assessment guidance and Water Crossing Design Guidelines. These standards are the foundation for establishing compliance measures. Compliance measures detail technical assistance support and voluntary compliance steps a structure owner may follow to correct a barrier fishway or water diversion. Compliance measures also establish the effects of non-compliance when a structure owner does not agree to a WDFW compliance request.
Documents
- CR-102 - Continuance – filed as WSR 23-19-072 on Notice and opportunity to comment on this current rule-making proposal
Public hearing
October 26-28, 2023 at 9:00 am
In-person at the Natural Resource Building (NRB)
1111 Washington Street SE
Olympia, WA 98501
and online via Zoom Meetings
Detailed information about Fish and Wildlife Commission meetings can be found at https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/commission/meetings
State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
SEPA details
This rule making has undergone SEPA review for environmental impacts and the department has issued a SEPA Determination. The SEPA Determination document is also available for public comment.
Please visit WDFW's SEPA page for more information.
For more information
An informational webinar was held on Tuesday, Oct. 25. Refer to the meeting presentation (PDF). The recording of the webinar is available on our YouTube page.
More information is available on the Fish Passage Rule Making Page.
Staff Contact: Gabrielle Stillwater at FishPassageRules@dfw.wa.gov
Public comments
To submit comments on this proposal, please visit Fishway and Screening Rules public engagement page.
You may also submit a comment via email to fish-passage-rules@PublicInput.com or by leaving a voicemail message at 855-925-2801 and entering project code 2051.
Comments will be accepted until the end of the comment period on September 29, 2023.