(1) In order to establish a regional fisheries enhancement group, interested parties must make application through the department. In order to qualify to establish a group, interested parties must:

(a) Identify which geographic region the interested parties live in.

(b) Identify the interested parties, including addresses.

(c) Identify a representative who will work with the department on the initial application.

(d) Agree to form a nonprofit corporation, registered with the secretary of state of the state of Washington.

(e) Agree to periodic audits by the department, or its representative.

(2) The department will provide coordination and technical assistance to facilitate the application by prospective groups to be fisheries regional enhancement groups. The department shall provide a format and guidelines which any prospective group may use to make initial application. An initial application will be reviewed by the regional enhancement task force within thirty days, and notice will be given in writing of any omissions or errors and corrective action will be discussed with the group representative. The prospective group will be given thirty days for correction and resubmission of the application.

(3) The goal shall be one prospective group per region, and a department coordinator shall seek reconciliation of competing interests, but in the event two or more prospective groups make application, the department may request a representative of each group to meet with the regional enhancement task force and make a presentation addressing why that group should be the fisheries regional enhancement group for the region. The regional fisheries task force shall recommend to the director which group shall be selected as the regional fisheries enhancement group. The criteria to be considered when choosing from among competing groups shall include, but not be limited to:

(a) Representation of diverse interests within the group.

(b) The intentions of the group regarding salmon production, salmon habitat protection, and salmon habitat enhancement.

(c) The inclusion of an educational component within the group's planning process.

(d) Group plans to provide accountability for both salmon production and fiscal matters.

(e) The expected level of voluntary contributions to and voluntary participation in group projects.

(4) Upon selection of the prospective group, the department will provide guidance and assistance with the articles of incorporation and establishment as a 501 (C)(3) organization.

(5) After approval as a group, incorporation, and initial 501 (C)(3) application, one-twelfth of the start up funds provided for in section 9, chapter 426, Laws of 1989, will be made available, as needed, to each group for start up costs, other than incorporation costs, or start up projects. Distribution of start up funds for start up costs or start up projects will be made by the director, based on review and recommendation by the regional enhancement task force. After January 1, 1991, uncommitted start up funds may be distributed by the director to established groups for start up projects, based on review and recommendation of the regional enhancement task force.