Commission approves land transactions and hears updates on coastal steelhead, fishery policies, budget at June meeting

ARCHIVED NEWS RELEASE

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News release

Commission office, commission@dfw.wa.gov, 360-902-2267

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission approved two motions related to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)-managed lands, honored the important work of volunteers and partners, and received updates on non-native game fish policy development and coastal steelhead outreach at its June virtual meeting.

The Commission on Friday approved a proposed covenant for Tanwax Lake in Pierce County to protect water quality for a domestic well on private land nearby. Commission members also approved a right-of-way exchange in support of Clallam County’s dike removal project along 3,400 feet of the west bank of the Lower Dungeness River. 

The Commission also recognized the important contributions of partner organizations and community volunteers during Friday’s meeting. The Columbia River chapter of the Association of Northwest Steelheaders was recognized as Organization of the Year for its efforts to improve the fishing experience for anglers throughout southwest Washington. Todd Rightmire, a teacher at Mount Baker Senior High School in Whatcom County, was named Educator of the Year for his coursework focused on Washington’s fish, wildlife, and natural resources.

WDFW also recognized several volunteers of the year for their extensive contributions to conservation and shared natural resources: Cathy Flick, father and son Hugh and Finn Carney, and Buzz Ramsey. A WDFW blog shares more about the contributions of these individuals and organizations.

Also on Friday, the Commission heard updates from staff and public comment on development of a new Non-Native Game Fish and Fisheries policy, as well as continued work on revisions to the Willapa Bay Salmon Management policy.

On Saturday, the Commission received briefings on plans for public input on the 2021-22 coastal steelhead season – including a series of workshops beginning in July and the creation of an ad-hoc advisory committee later this year – as well as updates on WDFW’s 2022 supplemental budget development.

The meeting concluded with a welcomed discussion prompted by the newly created Washington State Office of Equity about achieving equitable outcomes for all Washingtonians.

The public is invited to watch a recorded version of the meeting online once available at wdfw.wa.gov/about/commission/meetings.

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is a panel appointed by the governor that sets policy for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.

Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-855-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.