2005 Washington Revised Code RCW 77.105.020: Department responsibilities.

The department shall: Develop a short-term program of hatchery-based salmon enhancement using freshwater pond sites for the final rearing phase; solicit support from cooperative projects, regional enhancement groups, and other supporting organizations; conduct comprehensive research on resident and migratory salmon production opportunities; and conduct research on marine bottomfish production limitations and on methods for artificial propagation of marine bottomfish.

Long-term responsibilities of the department are to: Fully implement enhancement efforts for Puget Sound and Hood Canal resident salmon and marine bottomfish; identify opportunities to reestablish salmon runs into areas where they no longer exist; encourage naturally spawning salmon populations to develop to their fullest extent; and fully utilize hatchery programs to improve recreational fishing.

[1993 sp.s. c 2 § 84. Formerly RCW 75.54.020.]