77.12.878 - Infested waters -- Rapid response plan.

Infested waters — Rapid response plan.

(1) The director shall create a rapid response plan in cooperation with the aquatic nuisance species committee and its member agencies that describes actions to be taken when a prohibited aquatic animal species is found to be infesting a water body. These actions include eradication or control programs where feasible and containment of infestation where practical through notification, public education, and the enforcement of regulatory programs.

     (2) The commission may adopt rules to implement the rapid response plan.

     (3) The director, the department of ecology, and the Washington state parks and recreation commission may post signs at water bodies that are infested with aquatic animal species that are classified as prohibited aquatic animal species under RCW 77.12.020 or with invasive species of the plant kingdom. The signs should identify the prohibited plant and animal species present and warn users of the water body of the hazards and penalties for possessing and transporting these species. Educational signs may be placed at uninfested sites.

[2002 c 281 § 6.]

Notes: Purpose -- 2002 c 281: See note following RCW 77.08.010.