Publication Summary

Ecology is obligated under Chapters 90.82, 90.22, and 90.54 RCW to set and protect instream flows at levels necessary for the protection of fish and other environmental values. Instream flow rules may also include strategies or provisions for future uses of water. Ecology is proposing to amending Chapter 173-545 WAC in order to fulfill these obligations. The economic analysis described in this document was done as part of the rulemaking process. Ecology is developing and issuing this joint Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) and Least Burdensome Alternative Analysis, under Chapter 34.05 RCW, and Maximum Net Benefit Analysis (MNB), under RCW 90.54.020 (2). Ecology will use the information developed in these analyses to ensure that the proposed rules are consistent with legislative policy. Ecology is also developing and issuing a Small Business Economic Impact Statement (SBEIS) as part of its rule proposal process.