(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department of agriculture shall administer an integrated pest management research program that focuses on addressing the impacts of burrowing shrimp on bottom culture shellfish farming. The program must work towards the following objectives:
(a) Support and recommend funding for research efforts focused on enhancing the resilience and productivity of shellfish farming and the marine ecosystem in the face of burrowing shrimp infestations;
(b) Facilitate and enhance collaboration between researchers, shellfish farmers, regulatory agencies, and relevant stakeholders to ensure permanent, practical, and effective solutions.
(2) To accomplish its objectives, the program must do the following:
(a) Solicit researchers with expertise in marine biology, agriculture, ecology, engineering, and related fields to submit proposals for burrowing shrimp control research projects;
(b) Identify and provide ground for controlled research that explores diverse control methods;
(c) Identify funding mechanisms for future equipment needs based on tool and technology development;
(d) Provide permitting assistance for shellfish growers to use identified control methods.
(3) The governing board created in RCW 15.85.080 is responsible for reviewing research proposals, ensuring transparency and accountability in implementing the program, and guiding the department of agriculture on the expenditure of research grant funds.
(4) Research expenditures may only be spent on projects that support control of burrowing shrimp in Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor. Any control method that has been demonstrated as ineffective in past studies is not eligible for funding.
(5) This section expires July 1, 2035.