OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission met Dec. 14-16 via webinar to hold committee meetings, make decisions on land transactions, black bear timber damage rule making, three public petitions, and leadership elections; and hear briefings on a variety of fish and wildlife topics.
The meeting kicked off with committee sessions covering the Draft Conservation Policy, Lands 20/20 updates, fisheries season planning, and sea duck management. Of note, public comment on the updated draft Conservation Policy is open from December 18, 2023, to January 12, 2024.
Commissioners made significant decisions, including the approval of acquiring a 530-acre property at Chapman Lake in Spokane County. This move aims to provide public access to the lake and its surroundings, especially since access has been limited since the closure of Chapman Lake Resort in 2011. The Department of Natural Resources agreed to transfer the property to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife using the Trust Land Transfer program.
Funding for the site's development is secured through a Boating Facilities Program grant. The property will support various outdoor activities, including fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife watching.
The Commission also delved into the Lands 20/20 process, exploring 20 proposed projects related to species and habitat management, regional conservation initiatives, and community perspectives.
Friday afternoon saw the approval of a rule change for issuing black bear timber damage depredation permits. Discussions also included potential updates to the North of Falcon Policy.
The Commission addressed three public petitions, approving one for a fishing season amendment on Deer Lake in Stevens County, denying another for a recreational spring black bear hunting season, and accepting one for black bear and cougar seasons, pledging collaboration with staff for rule-making details.
Saturday began with open public input, followed by amendments to the Rules of Procedure, the election of Barbara Baker as Chair and Tim Ragen as Vice-Chair, and the hiring of an executive assistant. The meeting concluded with a debrief and future planning.
The recorded meeting will be available on the Commission webpage for public viewing.
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