Late in 2021, the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission (WDFW)failed to authorize the 2022 spring black bear season on a 4-4 vote. WDFW and its biologists estimate that there are between 18,000 and 21,000 black bears in the state and they recommend holding the spring season as a sustainable harvest of 9 to 11 percent. Despite being scientifically supported, the commission responded to activist pressure and overruled the WDFW recommendation by canceling the 2022 spring bear hunt.
Hunter-conservationists in Washington have responded and petitioned the commission to reconsider its action. As a result, a special commission meeting will be held on January 21 at 1 PM (Pacific Time) via Zoom. (Click here for the meeting notice and login details.
https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/commission/meetings/2022/21january2022-fwc-agenda )
It is imperative that Washington hunters make their voices heard.
1. We have drafted a message below. Edit it to fit your voice but emphasize supporting a sustainable spring bear season is important to you.
2. Attend the Zoom meeting January 21st if your schedule permits.
3. Encourage Governor Inslee to appoint commissioners to the open positions that respect and understand hunting as a critical part of the American model of wildlife management.
https://www.rmef.org/take-action/#/39
