House Committee Approves Hastings' Fish Stocking Bill

Press Release

House Committee Approves Hastings' Fish Stocking Bill

The House Resources Committee today approved a bill authored by Congressman Doc Hastings that would protect the practice of stocking trout in alpine lakes of the North Cascades. Hastings noted that although an amendment resulted in changes to his original legislation, the bill still achieves his goal of protecting fish stocking in years to come.

"In working with local leaders, our overriding goal is ensuring that fish stocking can continue to boost tourism, recreation and the economy in the North Cascades," Hastings said. "North Cascades communities have benefited from fish stocking for over a century, and I hope Congress acts quickly to pass my bill."

Hastings introduced his Fish Stocking Protection Act because the National Park Service believes additional congressional direction is necessary to allow the practice to continue. Hastings' bill would ensure that the National Park Service has explicit authority to continue fish stocking in the North Cascades.

The bill applies to 42 lakes that have historically been stocked with fish located on National Park Service lands in the North Cascades National Park Complex. The Complex includes the North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area.

For many decades, volunteer groups, working with the State of Washington in a carefully managed program, have stocked trout in a number of lakes in this area - providing enhanced recreation and drawing tourists to the area. The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife supports the Hastings' bill.

Cosponsors of Hastings' legislation include Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA), Congressman Norm Dicks (D-WA), Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Congressman Brian Baird (D-WA) and Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA).

Today's action clears the way for Hastings' bill to be considered by the full House.

Source