The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission gathered in Ellensburg from Oct. 24-26 to deliberate on a number of wildlife management policies and engage in tribal relations training. An initial virtual meeting of the Fish Committee on Oct. 21 set the stage by discussing several key topics, including Grays Harbor Basin salmon, coastal Dungeness crab, Lower Columbia sturgeon, and coastal steelhead season planning.
At the full Commission meeting, which was not live-streamed, members underwent tribal relations training last Thursday, Oct. 24. Following this, the session opened on Friday to public input and included reports from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Director Kelly Susewind and Regional Director Mike Livingston. The agenda included several land transactions, such as the acquisition of various parcels intended for wildlife areas and a long-term agreement to manage the Silver Lake Access Area.
In terms of policymaking, the Commission adopted the Grays Harbor Basin salmon management policy and the coastal Dungeness crab policy, as per the WDFW announcement. The day concluded with forward-looking discussions on the management of black bears and a preview of the proposed cougar hunting regulations for the 2025-2026 season.
On the final day of the meeting last Saturday, Oct. 26, participants had another opportunity to provide public input before the Commission shifted its focus to future planning and entered executive session. To maintain transparency, the event was streamed online, and recordings have been made available on the Commission's webpage for those interested in the proceedings. Next, a special meeting of the Commission’s Habitat Committee on Nov. 5 will review 20 proposed land acquisitions as part of the Department’s Lands 20/20 visioning process. These proposals are expected to be presented at the full Commission's December meeting.
The WDFW, entrusted with the stewardship of Washington's fish and wildlife, is committed to conservation while supporting sustainable recreational and commercial activities. For more details on the meeting outcomes and to view the recorded sessions, the public can visit the WDFW website.
