The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is comprised of nine citizen members, each appointed by the Governor. Commission appointees are subject to confirmation by the Senate.  Members are official upon appointment and serve as voting members while awaiting Senate confirmation.

Under current state law, the Commission must include three members from west of the Cascade Mountains, three members from east of the Cascade Mountains and three “at-large” members who may reside anywhere in the state. No two Commission members may reside in the same county (RCW 77.04.030).

Each commissioner is appointed to serve a six-year term. If a member resigns before the term expires, the Governor appoints a replacement within 60 days to complete the remainder of the term. Incumbent commissioners may be reappointed to serve additional terms if deemed appropriate by the Governor.

Commission members typically work two or three days a month attending public meetings, most of which take place in Olympia, and participating in telephone conference calls. Scheduled Commission meeting dates are listed on this website.

In addition to regular Commission meetings, each member serves on one or more Commission subcommittees, focusing in depth on individual fish and/or wildlife issues. These committees, each comprised of four Commission members working with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife staff, generally meet in conjunction with regular Commission meeting dates or via telephone conference call.

Commissioners are paid $100 per workday, and are reimbursed for travel expenses (meals, mileage, and lodging) in the same manner as state employees on work assignment. The Commission elects a new Chair and Vice Chair every other year.

There are currently two vacancies, one in western Washington and one at-large position. A total of three Fish and Wildlife Commission positions became open on December 31, 2008, when the terms expired. If you are interested in serving on the Commission, the Governor’s Office website provides the on-line application tool found at the following website: http://www.governor.wa.gov/boards/default.asp

For additional information on Commission service or to obtain application forms, please contact the Governor’s Boards and Commissions Office at (360) 902-4110, or the Fish and Wildlife Commission Office at (360) 902-2267.