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Committee hears HB 74 on private fish ponds; proponents cite invasive species risks, opponents cite fee burden
Summary
House Bill 74 would clarify DNRC water-right requirements for private fish ponds, shift permit terms from 10 to 5 years and increase application and renewal fees (proposed $600 application, $250 renewal) to better align with administrative costs; proponents stressed risks from illegal fish introductions and pathogens, opponents warned the fee structure could unduly burden small operators and raise property-rights concerns.
The House Natural Resources Committee considered House Bill 74, a water-policy interim committee bill that addresses regulation of private fish ponds, including water-right clarity, permit term and fees, and rulemaking authority.
Representative Ken Walsh (sponsor) said the bill responds to the study mandated by HB 520 (2023) and is intended to clarify when a private pond becomes regulated (stocking fish) and how to manage risks such as illegal fish introductions, pathogens and aquatic invasive species. "Private fish ponds are required to have a valid water right," Walsh said in his opening remarks, placing part of the bill's purpose in clarifying water-right and beneficial-use requirements.
Clayton Elliott…
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