Fish and Wildlife Commission decides on a land transaction and Willapa Bay salmon management in Yakima

Special Wildlife Committee virtual meeting Oct. 9 

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission held a retreat and made decisions on a variety of topics during its Sept. 28-30 meeting in Yakima.  

Beginning on Thursday and running until noon on Friday, the Commission participated in a retreat facilitated by Triangle Associates, where they discussed Commission processes and procedures.  

On Friday, the Commission approved a proposed land transaction to acquire about 650 acres in the Chester Butte Unit of the Sagebrush Flat Wildlife Area in Douglas County, to support protection of shrubsteppe habitat, home to the pygmy rabbit, as well as sharp-tailed and sage grouse habitat.  

The Commission adopted an updated Willapa Bay Salmon Management Policy (C-3622) that provides general guidance and management objectives for salmon management in Willapa Bay.  

The Commission also heard a briefing and took public comment on proposed revisions to rules for Puget Sound and coastal shellfish meant to improve commercial fishery monitoring.  

The Commission meeting concluded Saturday morning with open public input, followed by a future meeting planning discussion.  

The Commission’s Wildlife Committee will hold a special virtual meeting on Monday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon to discuss three-year season setting. To watch the committee meeting, view the Commission’s meeting webpage. 

Presentation slides and materials are posted on the Commission agenda. The September hybrid meeting was recorded so members of the public can watch at their convenience. The recording, as well as information about past and future Commission meetings and ways to participate, can be found at 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.