The bill aims to restore and sustain healthy ungulate populations in Washington State by establishing a new chapter in Title 77 RCW. It emphasizes the importance of ungulate species such as mule deer, white-tailed deer, elk, and moose, which are vital for ecological balance, cultural significance, and economic contributions to rural communities. The legislation mandates that if any ungulate species within a designated federal delisting area experiences a population decline of 25% or more below its 10-year rolling average, the Department of Fish and Wildlife must designate the population as at-risk and initiate predator mitigation actions. These actions may include seasonal or geographic predator reduction, translocation of wolves, and targeted removal.

Additionally, the bill requires the department to conduct annual population counts of white-tailed deer in collaboration with sportsmen, ensuring that survey methods are transparent and publicly accessible. Reports on ungulate population trends, at-risk designations, and mitigation actions must be submitted to the legislature annually by March 31st. The department is also empowered to adopt rules for implementing the chapter, including standards for surveys and predator mitigation planning. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance collaboration with sportsmen and ensure the sustainability of ungulate populations in Washington.