Washington § 77.04.012 - Mandate of department and commission.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 77.04.012 — Mandate of department and commission., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 77.04.012. Mandate of department and commission.

Wildlife, fish, and shellfish are the property of the state. The commission, director, and the department shall preserve, protect, perpetuate, and manage the wildlife and food fish, game fish, and shellfish in state waters and offshore waters.
The department shall conserve the wildlife and food fish, game fish, and shellfish resources in a manner that does not impair the resource. In a manner consistent with this goal, the department shall seek to maintain the economic well-being and stability of the fishing industry in the state. The department shall promote orderly fisheries and shall enhance and improve recreational and commercial fishing in this state.
The commission may authorize the taking of wildlife, food fish, game fish, and shellfish only at times or places, or in manners or quantities, as in the judgment of the commission does not impair the supply of these resources.
The commission shall attempt to maximize the public recreational game fishing and hunting opportunities of all citizens, including juvenile, disabled, and senior citizens.
Recognizing that the management of our state wildlife, food fish, game fish, and shellfish resources depends heavily on the assistance of volunteers, the department shall work cooperatively with volunteer groups and individuals to achieve the goals of this title to the greatest extent possible.
Nothing in this title shall be construed to infringe on the right of a private property owner to control the owner's private property.
[ 2000 c 107 s 2; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 s 5; 1975 1st ex.s. c 183 s 1; 1949 c 112 s 3, part; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 5780-201, part. Formerly RCW 75.08.012, 43.25.020.]

Notes

State policy regarding improvement of recreational salmon fishing: See note following RCW 77.65.150.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 77.04.012

What does Revised Code of Washington § 77.04.012 cover?

Section 77.04.012 ("Mandate of department and commission.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 77.04.012?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 77.04.012" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 77.04.012 apply to my situation?

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Sources & Verification

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