The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) wants citizens' advice on wildlife management issues.

The department is forming two new wildlife management advisory councils to make recommendations to WDFW Director Bern Shanks. One of the councils will focus on wildlife diversity (the department's term for issues involving non-game wildlife) and the other will address hunting and game management topics.

"These advisory councils will give us a chance to hear a variety of viewpoints and help us to develop policies in partnership with citizens," Shanks said.

Similar advisory councils already have been formed to address fish management issues.

Wildlife advisory council members will serve three-year staggered terms without compensation. The councils will meet three times a year, or as needed to coincide with Fish and Wildlife Commission meetings concerning wildlife management issues. In addition to advising the department, council members also will be asked to communicate with user groups and other persons interested in wildlife management issues.

The councils are expected to begin meeting after July 1.

Topics to be addressed by the Wildlife Diversity Advisory Council include wildlife viewing opportunities, educational outreach, land conservation and environmental projects. The group also will review the department's wildlife diversity program, including species surveys, research and habitat acquisition. Council applicants will be sought from scientists representing both industry and academia and from environmental and conservation groups.

The Game Management Advisory Council will focus on hunting-related issues, including hunting season recommendations, and other topics involving the management and protection of game species. Applicants are being sought with expertise in various hunting methods, wildlife conservation, wildlife science, agriculture or forest management.

Applicants wishing to serve on one of the councils should send letters by June 16 stating their interests and qualifications to: Bern Shanks, Director, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia 98501.