Fish and Wildlife Commission made decisions on land transaction and wildlife petitions during Sept. 8 meeting

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission met virtually Sept. 8 to host a special hatchery workshop and consider one land transaction and four public wildlife petitions.

The meeting began with the Commission hosting the third of four planned workshops related to hatchery production and prey availability for endangered Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW). The workshop focused on information about the current SRKW population and implementation of recommendations by the governor’s Southern Resident Orca Task Force.

After the hatchery workshop, Commissioners reconvened to decide on one land transaction and four rule making petitions. The Commission approved a proposed land acquisition in Clallam County to provide WDFW housing for Enforcement staff. The Commission denied two petitions related to spring black bear hunting and two petitions about cougar hunting and management. Petitioners withdrew a petition to begin rule making for wolf management prior to the Sept. 8 meeting.

Recordings of the hatchery workshop and the Commission meeting are available on the Commission webpage for people to watch at their convenience.

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.