The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is actively reaching out to the public for comments on their freshly minted draft strategy aimed at prioritizing which barriers need to quickly be removed to aid the migration of salmon and steelhead. The initiative stands as a response to the Legislature's mandate, carving a path for better coordination across Washington's various fish passage correction programs.
This effort isn't solely for the fish; it's intricately tied to the survival of the endangered Southern Resident killer whale population as well, whose fate is entwined with these salmon stocks. According to a news release from WDFW, the strategy is built on consultation with tribes, partners, and a dedicated science panel. Moreover, guidance also comes care of the Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board, which plays a pivotal role in evaluating and setting the funding agenda for these critical projects.
Voices from across the state are invited to scrutinize the draft strategy and submit their thoughts before October 14. Those looking to forward their written thoughts can do so electronically via the WDFW website, or physically by sending mail to Fish Passage Strategist Dr. Jane Atha at a designated P.O. Box address in Olympia.
Additionally, WDFW is planning to host a 'hybrid' workshop on October 2 from 2-4:30 p.m. at the Confluence Technology Center in Wenatchee. For those unable to attend in person, details on how to virtually join in are available on the statewide fish passage prioritization strategy webpage. This workshop offers a platform to discuss and directly hear feedback on the proposed plan—a critical conversation for the stakeholders of Washington’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems.
