Prior to recognizing an important bird area under this chapter, the department must:

(1) Publish notice of the proposed important bird area in the Washington state register;

(2) Publish notice of the proposed important bird area in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the proposed important bird area is located; and

(3) Conduct at least one public hearing in the county where the proposed important bird area is located.

Intent—2004 c 180: See note following RCW 79.70.110.