Fish and Wildlife Commission met virtually May 15 and 16

OLYMPIA — The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission discussed multiple topics in its Fish Committee on May 15, and heard a staff briefing on deer and elk commercial crop damage claim rule amendments and approved a proposed land transaction for the Duckabush Estuary property at its May 16 virtual meeting.

Due to a late venue cancellation and shortage of agenda topics, the meeting shifted from in-person in Sequim to a web conference.

The Commission’s Fish Committee met Thursday, May 15. The committee heard staff presentations on the Fish Program biodiversity package, North of Falcon outcomes, non-native game fish policy, and implementation of a mobile catch record card system. The committee also agreed to request that the Commission grant authority to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Director Kelly Susewind to promote rules regarding fishing closures near Washington State Department of Transportation ferry terminals and testing commercial fishing gear. 

The full Commission met Friday, May 16, and heard a staff briefing on deer and elk commercial crop damage claim rule amendments. It also approved a proposed land transaction for acquiring the Duckabush Estuary property through donation from the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group. After Commission approval, WDFW undertakes closing steps to finalize land acquisition in a timely manner. The exact timeline may vary depending on the transaction type and property location.

The Commission concluded its meeting with a debrief and future meeting planning. The meeting was recorded and is available on the Commission webpage so the public can watch at their convenience. 

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