Draft Fish and Wildlife Commission Conservation Policy
Draft Fish and Wildlife Commission Conservation Policy
The purpose of this policy is to direct WDFW in preserving and protecting our state’s fish and wildlife and their habitats by proactively addressing current and emerging conservation challenges.
Note that there are five tabs, and some tabs have multiple places to comment. In some tabs, you will need to scroll down to see each comment box.
Please note: All comments received by WDFW are part of the public record and will be available for public viewing - so please do not include private information in the text of your comments. Comments are subject to disclosure under the Public Records Act, RCW 42.56.
Introduction
Introduction
As trustees tasked with managing fish and wildlife resources in the trust of the public, conservation of fish, wildlife, and habitat is the paramount purpose of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). This responsibility is becoming increasingly difficult with the amplified effects of climate change, growing human population and development resulting in fragmented or lost habitat, invasive species, and increasing disease. We recognize that humankind is in the midst of a biodiversity extinction crisis and must act now while we still have the building blocks for success. The Department’s 25-Year Strategic Plan lays out a roadmap for addressing these conservation challenges, therefore the Commission sets the following policy guidance.