WDFW seeks applicants for positions on non-game wildlife advisory council

OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking applicants for its Wildlife Diversity Advisory Council, which advises the department on management of a wide range of non-game animals from butterflies to killer whales.

Issues addressed by the advisory council include wildlife viewing opportunities, educational outreach, funding options, land acquisition and conservation, research projects and implementation of the department's new Wildlife Action Plan.

WDFW Director Jeff Koenings will appoint eight new members to the 16-member advisory council based on their knowledge and experience regarding non-game species and their ability to communicate their perspectives in a productive manner.

To ensure the council represents a diversity of views, WDFW especially encourages applicants who can represent Eastern Washington, academia, agriculture, timberland owners, land trusts and conservation organizations that focus on non-game animals and watchable wildlife.

Letters of interest are due from applicants by 5 p.m., April 30, and should include contact information, wildlife experience, reasons for interest in being an advisor and their views on how an advisor should work with other advisors. Letters may be mailed to: Wildlife Diversity Division Manager, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way N, Olympia, WA 98501-1091. Nominations may also be submitted by FAX (360- 902-2162), or email (wildthing@dfw.wa.gov).

New wildlife advisory council members will serve three-year terms, and should be available for advisory committee meetings beginning as early as May 19. The council holds at least two one-day meetings and one two-day meeting each year. Special meetings may be called when special issues/topics arise. Council members, upon request, will be reimbursed by WDFW for travel expenses to attend meetings.