The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is calling on the public to weigh in on its newly drafted Best Available Science Policy. Until May 24, comments are open to anyone willing to chip in their two cents. Hoping to use this policy as a compass in the murky waters of environmental decision-making, the Commission looks to the public to provide a beacon of insight.

"If adopted, this policy will inform a variety of Department and Commission processes," John Lehmkuhl, Chair of the Commission's Big Tent Committee, announced as per the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission, barely containing his enthusiasm for the collaborative potential. In their attempt to snag a complete perspective, the Commission invites written comments posted online, or those who prefer the old-fashioned way can send an email to [email protected], sniffing out the best ideas that the public has to offer. 

After the comments are hauled in, the Commission aims to take the bait and finalize the policy during this summer. They're not fishing for compliments; they want fierce and diverse feedback, opening the floor to anyone regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, or any other identity marker you can think of.

Appointed by the governor, the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is the head honcho when it comes to setting policy for the WDFW. The WDFW itself has a big net to cast, responsible for safeguarding fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while making sure people can still hook their recreational and commercial fun.