Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission to meet virtually Jan. 10

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a virtual meeting Jan. 10 to hear a briefing and public hearing on proposed commercial whale watching rules, and discuss Columbia River fisheries, a legislative update, the recently-published Ruckelshaus report, and avian influenza.

The meeting, from 8:30-11:30 a.m., will be live-streamed with webinar access available on the Commission webpage.

During the meeting, the Commission will hear a briefing and public hearing on proposed rules for commercial whale watching and paddle tour license holders. A decision on the proposed rules is tentatively scheduled for the Feb. 13-15 hybrid meeting in Olympia.

The Commission will then decide on whether to hear a presentation on Columbia River fisheries at a future meeting. 

Commissioners will hear a legislative session update and discuss the William D. Ruckelshaus Center organizational review report.

The Commission will also hear an update from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife staff (WDFW) on avian influenza before adjourning the meeting. 

The full meeting agenda is available on the WDFW website. The meeting will be recorded and published on the Commission webpage so the public can watch afterward 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.