View this rule on WDFW rulemaking website

New rules are necessary to fully implement RCW 77.57, consistent with recommendations of the Southern Resident Orca Task Force. The ultimate goal of the new rules is to increase the availability of salmon for southern resident orcas. In November 2018, the Southern Resident Orca Task Force published its report identifying lack of prey as a key threat to Southern Resident Orcas. Contributing to this threat are development activities and fish passage barriers like impassable dams, tide gates, screens, and culverts that have reduced habitat available for salmon and forage fish. Recommendation three of the report endorsed agencies to apply and enforce laws that protect habitat. Specifically, the task force noted that the governor should direct WDFW to develop rules to fully implement RCW 77.57.