FACT SHEET WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091

Employees of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) are required on a daily basis to respond to problem and dangerous wildlife complaints. In many instances these issues are best resolved by immobilization of the animal.

Immobilization is also often necessary for population management and research. Commonly captured species such as bear, mountain lion, and deer require a strong, yet safe and effective immobilization agent.

For 25 years ketamine has been the chemical of choice in wildlife capture because of its efficacy, potency, and wide margin of safety. Recent federal legislation elevated ketamine to a controlled substance, which restricts the possession and use of ketamine to WDFW's two licensed veterinarians.

It is impossible for these two individuals to respond in an effective and timely manner to statewide wildlife immobilization needs.

This proposal would amend RCW 69.50 so that WDFW, through application and registration with the Washington Department of Health, would be authorized to purchase possess, and administer controlled substances, including ketamine for use in immobilizing wild animals.

This language is modeled after similar statutory language relating to the use of sodium pentobarbital by humane societies and animal control agencies (see RCW 69.50.310). This measure is supported by the Washington State Board of Pharmacy.