Drawing under way for low-numbered wildlife license plates

OLYMPIA - Want a chance to own one of the first wildlife license plates in the state?

Beginning Jan. 2, 2006, Washington residents will have five new wildlife-themed license plate backgrounds to choose from -- bald eagle, killer whale, elk, mule deer and black bear.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is inviting vehicle owners to enter a free random drawing for numbers 00001 through 00025 for each of its five new wildlife backgrounds.

While the drawing is free, the plates cost an additional $40 plus any applicable licensing fees and an additional $30 when the vehicle registration becomes due. The proceeds will benefit wildlife management in Washington.

Those interested in entering the drawing can apply at http://wdfw.wa.gov/license_plates/drawing.htm before Oct. 1. Winners will be chosen on Oct. 4. The plates become available on Jan. 2, 2006, and all fees must be paid on that day. One entry is allowed for each of the five wildlife backgrounds. Entrants must own a two-plated vehicle that is currently registered in Washington and be a registered owner of that vehicle.

Funds raised from bald eagle plates will go toward wildlife-viewing projects. Orca plates will help restore endangered and threatened species. Deer, elk and bear plates will support management of the state's game animal populations.

Those whose names are not drawn for a low-number wildlife license plate or who don't participate in the drawing can still purchase higher-numbered plates at any time after Jan. 2, 2006.