ARCHIVED NEWS RELEASE
This document is provided for archival purposes only. Archived documents do not reflect current WDFW regulations or policy and may contain factual inaccuracies.
News release
Cynthia Wilkerson, Lands Division Manager, 360-902-2508
Julie Sandberg, Real Estate Manager, 360-902-8149
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is inviting public comments on 18 strategic land conservation projects that would protect fish, wildlife, and public access to the great outdoors. Next steps include seeking funding sources for these projects including state Recreation and Conservation Office grants and federal grants from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Conservation projects proposed by the department range from habitat protection and restoration opportunities on the Union River Estuary in Mason County to establishing public boating access on Chapman Lake in Spokane County. Descriptions of all proposed projects are available on the department’s land acquisition webpage.
The department will accept written comments through Jan. 3, 2020. People who would like to submit comments can send them by email to lands@dfw.wa.gov or mail them to: Real Estate Services, PO Box 43158, Olympia, WA 98504.
"This is an opportunity to comment on proposals in the early stages of our strategic thinking," said Cynthia Wilkerson, WDFW lands division manager. “Our goal is to protect land and water for people and wildlife throughout the state while preserving natural and cultural heritage.”
The department owns or manages about one million acres statewide, with 33 wildlife areas and nearly 500 water access areas around the state. These public lands help sustain wildlife habitat and public recreation opportunities for current and future generations.
WDFW is the primary state agency tasked with preserving, protecting, and perpetuating fish and wildlife and ecosystems, while providing sustainable fishing and hunting opportunities.