Environmental management casts its net into the digital waters, as state fishery officials are ready to hold a virtual meeting about the rotenone treatment plan for Upper West Branch LeClerc Creek. On May 12, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., concerned citizens can dive into discussions remotely through Microsoft Teams or by dialing in, according to a release by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Rotenone, a pesticide pulled from the roots of tropical plants, has been getting the green light from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for fish population management. Kenneth Behen, WDFW warmwater fish program manager, told the public, “Upper West Branch LeClerc Creek will be treated to remove non-native eastern brook trout.” The goal is to boost native westslope cutthroat trout populations, which are struggling due to competition from invasive species, as noted by the WDFW news release.
To participate in the meeting, attendees can join via a link or call at 1-564-999-2000 with conference ID: 130 951 180#. Documents pertinent to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) determination, now open for comment, are accessible on the WDFW’s SEPA webpage, with feedback channels through the WDFW Public Input portal or email at [email protected].
Public voices in this ecological conversation must be heard before 5 p.m. on May 20, in time for the WDFW director's decision in June. The WDFW, an agency dedicated to preserving the tapestry of Washington's wildlife, has been applying rotenone for more than 80 years, a practice echoed by wildlife management bodies nationwide. Information seekers with distinct communication needs can request materials in alternative formats or languages, by calling 833-885-1012 or TTY (711), or emailing at [email protected].
