Commission decided on Woodland Caribou status and land transactions, discussed several topics at October Colville meeting

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission heard updates on a wide range of topics at a hybrid meeting Oct. 27-29 in Colville, including the Duckabush restoration project, shoreline armoring, the spring bear policy process, and more.

The Commission held Habitat, Wildlife, and Fish committees, where topics included an update on the Washington Shrubsteppe Restoration and Resilience Initiative, game management plan planning, coastal steelhead, and discussions on fish and wildlife topics.

The full Commission met Friday, Oct. 28, and approved a land transaction for approximately 100 acres in Okanogan County. The Commission also decided to maintain existing endangered status for the Woodland caribou and discussed working with the Kalispel Tribe of Indians on recovery actions.

Commissioners also heard an update on the Duckabush Estuary restoration project, shoreline armoring, and discussed the process to develop a Spring Bear Policy. The Commission planned an in-person meeting to discuss the policy on Nov. 18. More detail will be available on WDFW’s website.

On Saturday, the Commission decided on the agenda for a Hatchery Workshop and future meeting planning.

The meeting was recorded so members of the public who missed the meeting can watch at their convenience. To see information about past and future Commission meetings, as well as ways to participate, please visit WDFW’s website.

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