Summary of proposed rule
The rule proposal raises the limit of maximum cash compensation that WDFW may pay to eligible farmers for a claim for commercial crop damage caused by deer and elk to $300,000 per fiscal year from the state general fund. The rule proposal also raises the maximum cash compensation WDFW may pay to eligible owners for a claim for commercial livestock or guard dog losses caused by cougar or wolves from $10,000 to $30,000 per claim. Further, the rule proposal specifies the method for prioritizing and paying damage claims.
Scope and rationale for proposed rule
WDFW’s mitigation and compensation program intends to control or mitigate the crop damage caused by wildlife without killing the animals, as well as increase the harvest of damage-causing animals in local hunting seasons. In 2024, the Legislature passed 2SSB 5784 regarding cash compensation for wildlife damage to commercial crops and livestock. In response to this bill, WDFW proposes to amend four rules in chapter 220-440 WAC. The rule proposal raises the limit of maximum cash compensation that WDFW may pay to eligible farmers for a claim for commercial crop damage caused by deer and elk to $300,000 per fiscal year from the state general fund. The rule proposal also raises the maximum cash compensation WDFW may pay to eligible owners for a claim for commercial livestock or guard dog losses caused by cougar or wolves from $10,000 to $30,000 per claim, and is now not appealable for a higher payment amount. The previous law did not limit the amount of payment for a crop damage claim after it was appealed. Further, the rule proposal specifies the method for prioritizing and paying damage claims.
Documents
- CR-105 – filed as WSR 24-16-038 on Notice and opportunity to comment on this current expedited rule-making proposal
Public hearing
This rule was proposed under an expedited rule making process that eliminates the need for the agency to hold public hearings, prepare a small business economic impact statement, or provide responses to the criteria for a significant legislative rule.
State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
The rule making for this proposal is exempt from SEPA under WAC 197-11-800(19).
For more information
Staff Contact: Jim Brown at Jim.Brown@dfw.wa.gov
Public comments
If you have any questions on this rule making, please contact Jim Brown at Jim.Brown@dfw.wa.gov