WDFW seeks public input on Lower Columbia River tributary fisheries

RIDGEFIELD – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is asking for public input on management strategies for salmon and steelhead in Lower Columbia River tributary fisheries.

Survey responses will inform potential updates to the Lower Columbia River Tributary Fishery Management and Evaluation Plan (FMEP). The online survey is open through April 30. 

“This is an opportunity for individuals to weigh in on how we approach fisheries management in Lower Columbia River tributaries,” said Bryce Glaser, WDFW’s Southwest Region Fish Program Manager. “Through public input and the latest scientific modeling, we can make informed decisions that support both fish populations and fishing opportunities for years to come.”

Last updated in 2003, the FMEP meets a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) requirement in order to set fishing seasons for salmon and steelhead listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA). The FMEP sets fishery targets, such as how many fish should escape to spawn or how many fish can be harvested. The plan also assesses conservation risks, outlines how fisheries and fish populations are regulated, monitored, and enforced, and includes performance measures to track progress toward management objectives. 

This work is funded through the Washington State Legislature’s 2023-2025 biennial budget allocation for Columbia River ESA Permitting. With this funding, WDFW implemented a Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE) approach for the first time. The MSE uses advanced models to simulate management strategies and assess their impacts on fish populations.

WDFW held a virtual public meeting April 1 to discuss harvest management options under consideration and answer questions about the evaluation process. Refer to the survey webpage for the meeting recording or to review presentation materials.

More information about how fishery managers are using the MSE process to consider updates to the Lower Columbia River Tributary FMEP is available on the WDFW blog.

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 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.