Introduction
	Commission Members
	Policy Documents
	Meeting Calendar
	Meeting Minutes
	Serving on the Commission
	Providing Public Input to the Commission

Commission News
	Commission will consider $10 penalty for crabbers who don’t report catch
	Commission sets 2008 waterfowl seasons, amends cougar hunting regulations
	Commission hears comments on proposed changes to cougar hunting regulations

PROCEDURE FOR PUBLIC TESTIMONY The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission implemented new public testimony procedures in October 2006. The changes are designed to allow adequate time to consider public input prior to decisions, as well as to improve the ability of the Commission to move through its lengthy agendas. The new procedure will provide for public testimony (the public hearing) at the same meeting where staff briefs the Commission on proposed rule amendments and/or policy changes. This means the public hearing opportunity will take place at the Commission briefing rather than at the time of final action. As a result, the public will have the opportunity to hear the staff presentation and consider it prior to making comments. The Commission will also be able to thoroughly consider the public comments in light of the staff report. Final Commission decisions will be made at subsequent meetings, typically at the next regular meeting that follows the briefing and public hearing. The Commission remains committed to providing the public with the opportunity to speak to the various issues that arise. "Open Public Input" will remain as a regular agenda item. For more information, contact the Commission office at (360) 902-2267 or email commission@dfw.wa.gov.

Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission consists of nine members serving six-year terms. Members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate. Three members must reside east of the summit of the Cascade mountains, three must reside west of the summit, and three may reside anywhere in the state. No two Commissioners may reside in the same county.

While the Commission has several responsibilities, its primary role is to establish policy and direction for fish and wildlife species and their habitats in Washington and to monitor the Department's implementation of the goals, policies and objectives established by the Commission. The Commission also classifies wildlife and establishes the basic rules and regulations governing the time, place, manner, and methods used to harvest or enjoy fish and wildlife.

The Commission receives its authority from the passage of Referendum 45 by the 1995 Legislature and public at the 1995 general election. The Commission is the supervising authority for the Department. With the 1994 merger of the former Departments of Fisheries and Wildlife, the Commission has comprehensive species authority as well.

Through formal public meetings and informal hearings held around the state, the Commission provides an opportunity for citizens to actively participate in management of Washington's fish and wildlife.