Fish and Wildlife Commission met April 3-5 in Olympia

OLYMPIA — The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission held a hybrid meeting in Olympia from April 3 to 5 to have committee meetings, decide on a land transaction, coastal crab fishery line marking rule, and carnivore season setting, and heard updates on Blue Mountain elk calf survival and the 2024 annual wolf report.

The meeting began Thursday, April 3 with Big Tent, Fish, and Wildlife committee meetings. Each committee had a discussion on budget and legislation. The Fish Committee heard a briefing from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) on annual crab and shrimp policies, lamprey, and coastal crab line marking. The Wildlife Committee heard updates on deer and elk commercial crop damage, deleterious exotic wildlife, and the game management plan. 

The full Commission meeting began April 4, with an open public input opportunity, followed by a report from WDFW Director Kelly Susewind.

The Commission approved the coastal crab fishery comprehensive line marking rule. The Commission approved a land acquisition of 655 acres in Pacific County that is part of the North Willapa Bay Project in the Johns River Wildlife Area.

The Commission approved rules for the 2025-2027 cougar hunting season and updates to pelt sealing requirements. The Commission approved rules for the 2025-2027 black bear hunting season. To end the day Friday, the Commission heard a briefing on Blue Mountain elk calf survival.

Saturday’s agenda began with an open public input opportunity. The Commission then heard a staff report on the 2024 annual wolf report. The Commission concluded the meeting with a meeting debrief and planned for future meetings.

The meeting was recorded and is published on the Commission meeting webpage so the public can watch at their convenience. Meeting presentations and other materials are also available on the Commission meeting webpage.

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