Public comment period for black bear timber damage permit rule proposal extended

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has extended a public comment period about the Department’s proposed rule change to revise how WDFW issues black bear timber damage depredation permits. The public now has until Friday, Oct. 27 to submit comments.

A copy of the rule making proposal is available on the WDFW website. The public can submit comments via web form, by email, or by phone (855-925-2801, project code 5474). The public may also mail written comments to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife ATTN: Wildlife Program, PO Box 43200, Olympia, WA 98504.

Members of the public who have already submitted comments as part of this proposal do not need to re-submit their comments.

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission will accept in-person and virtual public comments on the proposed rule change at a rescheduled public hearing during their Oct. 26-28 meeting in Olympia. Those interested in providing comments during the meeting should pre-register online. Information on how to pre-register will be made available on the Commission Meeting webpage. A decision is tentatively scheduled for the November 2023 meeting.

All members of the public are invited to share their perspectives and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, or basis of disability.

The Department’s proposal would provide a process for WDFW to issue permits for individuals to lethally remove black bears in specific locations where black bears damage commercial timber. The proposed rule, if adopted, would identify how permits could be applied for, the conditions of the permits, and how the Department would manage applications.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.