A bill from Rep. Kevin Waters to improve the state’s ability to remove fish barriers took another step forward in the process to become law. House Bill 2045 would facilitate the removal of fish barriers on lands owned by local governments by creating the “Adopt a Fish Barrier” program, through which local governments may receive private donations.
The Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee unanimously approved the bipartisan bill on Wednesday.
“This is a great way for the people of Washington to get involved in the process of removing fish barriers,” said Waters, R-Stevenson. “It would give anyone who is passionate about salmon, or fish in general, more opportunities to make a real difference. The state has limited financial resources to overcome the many challenges that come with removing these barriers. However, by allowing private citizens to get involved, we can have a much bigger impact.”
Under the bill, the Recreation and Conservation Office would keep a list of projects suited to receiving private donations so a person could donate to a project of their choice.
Donations of $10,000 or more would be recognized with a sign at the corrected barrier. Donations of $100,000 or more would be recognized with the sign and by a plaque signed by the governor with their name, the location of the project, the amount and year of the donation, and the fish species affected by removing the barrier.
“Thankfully, there are many people in Washington that care about this cause, and they want to help,” noted Waters. “Allowing them to team up with the state to remove fish barriers on lands owned by local governments would give the state more resources to combat this issue. We need to do more to help our fish populations thrive, and this bill would do that.”
House Bill 2045 now waits for a vote from the entire House of Representatives.
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