Failure to obey stop work order—Departmental action authorized—Liability of owner or operator for costs.

When the operator has failed to obey a stop work order issued under the provisions of RCW 76.09.080 the department may take immediate action to prevent continuation of or avoid material damage to public resources. If a final order or decision fixes liability with the operator, timber owner, or forestland owner, they shall be jointly and severally liable for such emergency costs which may be collected in the manner provided for in RCW 76.09.120.[ 1974 ex.s. c 137 s 13.]