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RAC endorses updated expo-permit rule and allows contractor limited online validation
Summary
The Northeastern RAC recommended the Division’s expo-permit rule amendments and approved an amendment allowing the contract holder limited discretion to offer online validation for up to 50 of the expo permits; the motion passed 6-2.
The Northeastern RAC considered amendments to the state’s expo-permit rule, which governs special drawings and permit distributions sold through the annual conservation-expo process. The RAC approved the rule as presented and adopted an amendment that gives the selected contract holder discretion to offer online validation for up to 50 of the expo permits (out of a maximum 200) during the forthcoming contract period. The amended motion passed by a 6-2 margin.
DWR staff described the expo program as an important revenue source for targeted conservation projects (the program generated roughly $2 million annually in recent years, per DWR comments) and explained that rule changes would clean up procurement and contract language, allow a modest increase to the application fee (the proposed rule sets an allowable application fee range of $5–$10), and clarify how funds must be used and audited. The rule keeps a required in-person validation element for most expo permits but the RAC amendment allows the contractor flexibility to pilot limited online validation for up to 50 permits; the RAC stated that flexibility should be used cautiously to preserve resident and local access and the economic benefits of in-person events.
The RAC discussed program transparency and auditing; DWR staff said expo revenue is audited annually and that 35% of application fees return to the contractor for processing and the remainder is directed to conservation projects, including cooperative agreements and other allowable uses. Conservation groups that spoke at the meeting supported the program and noted expo funds have been used for large habitat projects, nursery facilities for bighorn sheep and other conservation priorities.
Motion and vote: the RAC approved the DWR’s rule amendments as presented and approved the contractor-flexibility amendment (allow online validation up to 50 permits); the final recorded vote was 6 in favor, 2 opposed.
The RAC’s recommendation will be included in board materials for final rule adoption; DWR staff noted the board and procurement process will finalize the contract and the fee schedule in the next procurement cycle.
