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Author Topic: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th  (Read 8055 times)

Offline Skyvalhunter

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The only man who never makes a mistake, is the man who never does anything!!
The further one goes into the wilderness, the greater the attraction of its lonely freedom.

Offline fireweed

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #1 on: December 18, 2023, 10:14:50 AM »
Looking at the wording and how it could be used as a cudgel, I see major problems with the definitions.  It seems they are operating on some utopian idea that we can put the genie back in the bottle and create a pre-1492 "natural ecosystem" of "native" species.  Ain't happening.  Starlings, Norway rats, scotch broom, Himalaya blackberries, canary grass, walleye, brook trout, pheasants, nutria and dandelions aren't going anywhere.  These species are here to stay.  We need a plan that acknowledges the realities of today. Not every ecosystem that had wolves and grizzlies in the past can have them now.  There will never be "natural" ecosystems again, but that is their goal. It would be helpful to see the old goals and the draft goals side by side to see the changes.

Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #2 on: December 19, 2023, 05:33:24 AM »
Well its time for you to voice your opinion via e-mail
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Offline Jlittlebear31

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #3 on: December 19, 2023, 06:06:26 AM »
Could someone more educated (than me) on this help with some wording on what should be pointed out and listed?  I'd love to get some language that others could plagiarize.
"Raise your sons to be men and your daughters to accept nothing less"

Offline fireweed

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #4 on: December 19, 2023, 09:59:47 AM »
I have compared the previous version, with this new draft side-by-side.  The most glaring change has been in the definition of conservation:
Version 1 Conservation--Science informed actions to preserve the health and resilience of natural environments including fish, wildlife and humans, safeguard the intrinsic value of nature, and provide equitable benefits to current and future generations of human and non-human life.  These actions include protecting and restoring air, soil, water, biological diversity, ecosystem processes and evolutionary potential. 
 
New Version: Conservation--Science-informed actions to perpetuate the health, resilience, and intrinsic value of native species and natural ecosystems.

My take. Version 1 is too wordy and unwieldly so simplification was good BUT the removal of people/humans element from the definition is BAD as is the inclusion of the word NATIVE before species and NATURAL before ecosystems.  The new definition completely removes many popular game and fish species from the definition of conservation.  These species could be removed completely from the state under this paradigm. 
The term Intrinsic value must also be expanded to include extrinsic value (economic, cultural, recreational etc)  Later in the document, the word conservation is used over and over so it needs to include all the species we currently want and manage, native or non-native.  Secondly, the term "natural ecosytems" is never defined, only ecosystem and ecosystem management. The human element needs to be returned.  Conservation, historically as a word, has always had an element of human use. 

I also strongly believe that a principle that includes the realities of the 21st century should be added.  This additional wording should acknowledge that the goal of recreating  "natural" ecosystems composed of only native species is aspirational, but not practical or even possible in most (if not all) places.  Not many ecosystems that had grizzly bears or wolves in 1700 can support them now, so re-making intact ecosystems is impossible.  The realities and limitations of today need to be incorporated, along with a stronger human element that reflects the guidelines in the RCW.   
« Last Edit: December 19, 2023, 11:37:27 AM by fireweed »

Offline hunter399

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #5 on: December 19, 2023, 01:06:25 PM »
I have compared the previous version, with this new draft side-by-side.  The most glaring change has been in the definition of conservation:
Version 1 Conservation--Science informed actions to preserve the health and resilience of natural environments including fish, wildlife and humans, safeguard the intrinsic value of nature, and provide equitable benefits to current and future generations of human and non-human life.  These actions include protecting and restoring air, soil, water, biological diversity, ecosystem processes and evolutionary potential. 
 
New Version: Conservation--Science-informed actions to perpetuate the health, resilience, and intrinsic value of native species and natural ecosystems.

My take. Version 1 is too wordy and unwieldly so simplification was good BUT the removal of people/humans element from the definition is BAD as is the inclusion of the word NATIVE before species and NATURAL before ecosystems.  The new definition completely removes many popular game and fish species from the definition of conservation.  These species could be removed completely from the state under this paradigm. 
The term Intrinsic value must also be expanded to include extrinsic value (economic, cultural, recreational etc)  Later in the document, the word conservation is used over and over so it needs to include all the species we currently want and manage, native or non-native.  Secondly, the term "natural ecosytems" is never defined, only ecosystem and ecosystem management. The human element needs to be returned.  Conservation, historically as a word, has always had an element of human use. 

I also strongly believe that a principle that includes the realities of the 21st century should be added.  This additional wording should acknowledge that the goal of recreating  "natural" ecosystems composed of only native species is aspirational, but not practical or even possible in most (if not all) places.  Not many ecosystems that had grizzly bears or wolves in 1700 can support them now, so re-making intact ecosystems is impossible.  The realities and limitations of today need to be incorporated, along with a stronger human element that reflects the guidelines in the RCW.
Natural ecosystem.
Doesn't exist.
It only exists if you set aside millions of acres ,never touch it, don't even look at it. No recreational at all.
Never inhabit it EVER.

The problem with the anti-hunting types.
Is you manage it and play god.
Or you leave it ,and never touch it.

There is no in-between.

Offline Slamadoo

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #6 on: December 20, 2023, 10:40:19 PM »
This is all part of the playbook with these liberal extremist groups. They just redefine the words and control the direction of debate/conversation/policy in that manner.

In this instance, they don't like what conservation is and the vital role hunters play in it so they will just change the definition of the word conservation so that it's a definition they want.

IMO we should be 100% pushing back on this. Words have meaning and those meanings are important. There is also no reason for this policy change. The department already has guidance and state laws to follow. Again, they don't like that, so they will just change it.

If you've been paying attention at all for the last 30 years you can think of many examples of this same strategy. "Woman" and "Marriage" are two.

Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #7 on: December 21, 2023, 05:20:21 AM »
Time for inputs to be sent
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Offline fireweed

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #8 on: December 21, 2023, 10:42:43 AM »
This is all part of the playbook with these liberal extremist groups. They just redefine the words and control the direction of debate/conversation/policy in that manner.

In this instance, they don't like what conservation is and the vital role hunters play in it so they will just change the definition of the word conservation so that it's a definition they want.

IMO we should be 100% pushing back on this. Words have meaning and those meanings are important. There is also no reason for this policy change. The department already has guidance and state laws to follow. Again, they don't like that, so they will just change it.

If you've been paying attention at all for the last 30 years you can think of many examples of this same strategy. "Woman" and "Marriage" are two.

Exactly! Redefine conservation to mean recreate what was here in before Columbus.  Impossible.   And now people are removed from any consideration,  except perhaps tribal use.

Offline high_hunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #9 on: January 02, 2024, 09:31:43 PM »
Bringing this back to the top as I'd forgot to email comments since first seeing with all the holiday chaos.

Note the updated submittal email in the link from the OP.  I'll send to this along with my usual wdfw cc. 

Thanks for posting @Skyvalhunter hopefully it helps get constructive hunter input infront of the Commission to continue refining or drop this policy rewrite.

hh
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Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #10 on: January 03, 2024, 05:47:16 AM »
We can only hope some constructive criticism is given to WDFW without personal attacks. Things can't be changed if input is not given.
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Offline GASoline71

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #11 on: January 03, 2024, 07:17:17 AM »
Could someone more educated (than me) on this help with some wording on what should be pointed out and listed?  I'd love to get some language that others could plagiarize.

Don't worry about making sure that others can plagiarize.  The main thing is that comments need to be made.  Don't get hung up on specifics.  Just make good, thought out comments and tell them how you personally feel about the conservation policy.  Trust me, there are lots of people sending in comments right now picking it apart piece by piece.  We need people to get comments in... now.


IMO we should be 100% pushing back on this. Words have meaning and those meanings are important. There is also no reason for this policy change. The department already has guidance and state laws to follow. Again, they don't like that, so they will just change it.

No time like the present to start that push.  WE need to keep pushing, and not stop.  Get comments in and spread the word.

Gary
One does not hunt in order to kill; on the contrary, one kills in order to have hunted. If one were to present the sportsman with the death of the animal as a gift he would refuse it. What he is after is having to win it, to conquer the surly brute through his own effort and skill with all the extras that this carries with it: the immersion in the countryside, the healthfulness of the exercise, the distraction from his job. ~ Jose Ortega y Gasset

Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #12 on: January 05, 2024, 07:07:06 AM »
Bump
The only man who never makes a mistake, is the man who never does anything!!
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Offline KNOPHISH

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #13 on: January 05, 2024, 08:21:46 AM »
Part of what I wrote, bring back spring bear then we’ll talk about a new science based conservation policy. Your own biologists say there are plenty of bears so what science are you following.
I have Man Chit to do

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #14 on: January 05, 2024, 09:01:07 AM »
My comments were focused on the need to maximize the entire resource for consumptive uses.  Many families in our state utilize wild game and fish to have a healthy protein source.  Not everyone has a Safeway down the street.  Increasing one population niche (predators) severely degrades the ability of families to obtain this resource.
Introduce someone new to hunting this year.

Offline harveymarv

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #15 on: January 05, 2024, 02:38:44 PM »
just sent my comments - the definitions and wording in this draft are terrible for consumptive use - as is the document lays the groundwork to exclude hunting and fishing from conservation, or put them at the bottom of the priority list.

Offline fireweed

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #16 on: January 05, 2024, 04:02:19 PM »
Another issue with their focus on only "native" species is that deciding what critter is native.  Are barred owls and scrub jays native?  They migrated here on their own, and with climate change (that the WDFW and liberals are always pointing to) species distribution will change in the future.  Animals and plants will migrate.  Are these native or not?  We need something that works for today and into the realistic future.

Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #17 on: January 08, 2024, 06:23:36 AM »
Thanks for participating in the comment period.
The only man who never makes a mistake, is the man who never does anything!!
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Offline hunter399

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #18 on: January 09, 2024, 12:34:11 PM »
I did email a comment that I do not support policy change.
Did my part,but get the feeling that it will happen regardless.
Just reading the policy,I feel this has little to do with conservation.
And more to do with coyote hunting.
Just my opinion.

Offline JBar

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #19 on: January 09, 2024, 02:34:48 PM »
Commented the best I could as I’m not good with that sort of thing. I can already guess the vote count but here’s to hoping!!
Shut up and Hunt!

Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #20 on: January 10, 2024, 08:46:29 AM »
Times winding down
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Offline hunter399

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #21 on: January 10, 2024, 10:26:29 AM »
All this policy change is about is total control over all species.
Mainly unclassified wildlife.

Terms like ,"biodiversity Crisis" that's a red flag for me.
I'm all about a full spectrum ecosystem.
When you add "crisis" to it . Means drastic changes.
Drastic changes always upset the balance of any ecosystem.

Offline Skyvalhunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #22 on: January 11, 2024, 05:38:23 AM »
Good to see some participation in the last few days to make a comment.


Draft Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
Conservation Policy
Available for Public Comment from December 18, 2023-January 12, 2024
Draft Version: December 15, 2023
Policy Number: C-700X
Effective Date: Month X, 2023
Signed by: Barbara Baker, Fish and Wildlife Commission Chair
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to affirm our commitment to conserving our state’s fish
and wildlife populations and their habitats, and to sustainably manage fish and wildlife
populations to meet the needs of current and future generations.
As trustees tasked with managing fish and wildlife resources in the public trust, conservation of
fish, wildlife, and habitat is the paramount responsibility of the Washington Department of Fish
and Wildlife (WDFW). Achieving the Department’s mandate under RCW 77.04.012 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 we
must continue to act while we still have the building blocks for success. The Department’s 25-
Year Strategic Plan lays out a roadmap for implementing the Department’s mandate and
addressing these conservation challenges, therefore building on that the Commission sets the
following policy guidance.
Definitions:
Conservation – Science-informed actions to perpetuate the health, resilience, and intrinsic
value of native species and natural ecosystems.
Ecosystem – A community of organisms and their physical environment viewed as a system of
interacting and interdependent relationships.
Ecosystem-based management – A comprehensive management approach that protects and/or
restores the function, structure, and species composition of an ecosystem, recognizing that all
components are interrelated.
Sustainability – The management of fish and wildlife resources in ways and rates that maintain
and enhance the integrity and resilience of ecosystems and the benefits that such provide to
current and future generations.
Principles:
1) Conservation first — The WDFW’s top priority is the conservation of Washington’s fish,
shellfish, and wildlife for the benefit of all state residents, current and future. Successful
conservation is the foundation supporting the spectrum of values that Washington
residents hold regarding providing sustainable recreational and commercial opportunities
including, but not limited to, hunting, fishing, and wildlife appreciation.
2) Conservation of all species, habitat, and ecosystems — To preserve functioning, resilient,
and healthy ecosystems, the WDFW shall strive to conserve fish, shellfish, and wildlife,
whether rare or common, and their habitats through ecosystem-based management. Doing
so is essential to maintain species diversity.
3) Conservation partnerships — An ecosystem-based management approach requires
strong coordination, cooperation, and collaboration with local, state, federal, and tribal
governments, non- governmental organizations, private landowners, academia, businesses,
and engaged residents. Collaboration with neighboring states and Canada is also important
because fish and wildlife distributions are not constrained by political boundaries. The
Commission recognizes that Washington’s population is diverse and growing, and that
everyone relies on and has a stake in healthy fish and wildlife and intact ecosystems to
support our quality of life. Therefore, the Commission’s outreach and resultant policies need
to be inclusive of both traditional stakeholders and the broader public in order to foster the
necessary partnerships to accomplish its mission.
4) Knowledge and science — WDFW actions and decisions shall be informed by objective,
science-based knowledge. Scientific efforts to inform the WDFW must be sufficiently broad
and multi-disciplinary, combining all related scientific fields (e.g., biological, ecological,
economic, and social) as well as other sources of information such as traditional ecological
knowledge and local knowledge. Adaptive management is a critical and required step to
implement actions learned from monitoring the decisions and actions against the results.
Adaptive management thus informs necessary changes to meet the desired outcomes.
5) Risk and uncertainty — Many, if not all, management challenges faced by the WDFW
involve some degree of uncertainty and risk to fish and wildlife. Human population growth
and expansion resulting in habitat degradation, or loss, and climate change are examples
where the uncertainty and risk may be substantial. Therefore, the WDFW shall seek to
identify and account for risks to the conservation of fish, wildlife, and habitat when deciding
whether or not to pursue a proposed action. The identified risks shall form the foundation
for monitoring and adaptive management of those decisions or actions.
6) Innovative leadership and solutions — Fish and wildlife management challenges are
exacerbated by our rapidly changing world. In response, the WDFW must be more
innovative and determined in our conservation efforts. Innovation does not always lead to
success, but the WDFW must be willing to make hard decisions, and on occasion make
course corrections, in order to learn and to develop the understanding and competence
needed to fulfill the mandate.
7) Aligning mandate, strategy, staff, and budget — To achieve the mandate expressed in
RCW 77.04.012, the WDFW must develop the necessary strategies, enlist the necessary
staff, and secure the necessary resources. To that end, the WDFW must strengthen its
communications to the public, State Legislature, and Governor regarding the need for
expanded partnerships, additional authorities, and funding.
Tribal considerations: The Commission respects and appreciates the status of the tribes as
sovereign nations. Their traditional ecological knowledge and their connections to the land and
waters offer key insights into how to conserve fish, wildlife and lands in Washington. For that
reason, nothing in this policy is designed to interpret, expand, impede or minimize tribal rights,
nor does this policy replace current or future individual WDFW-tribal memoranda of
agreement, consultation plans, co-management agreements or any other agreements between
WDFW and any tribe or tribes.
*As referenced in this policy, “WDFW” means all facets of the agency, including the
Department, the Director, and the Commission.
The foregoing policy, including its guiding principles, shall be incorporated by the WDFW in
the development and approval of the budget, planning, management, and decision-making
processes.
« Last Edit: January 11, 2024, 05:53:56 AM by Skyvalhunter »
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Offline hunter399

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #23 on: January 11, 2024, 09:57:42 AM »
Good to see some participation in the last few days to make a comment.


Draft Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
Conservation Policy
Available for Public Comment from December 18, 2023-January 12, 2024
Draft Version: December 15, 2023
Policy Number: C-700X
Effective Date: Month X, 2023
Signed by: Barbara Baker, Fish and Wildlife Commission Chair
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to affirm our commitment to conserving our state’s fish
and wildlife populations and their habitats, and to sustainably manage fish and wildlife
populations to meet the needs of current and future generations.
As trustees tasked with managing fish and wildlife resources in the public trust, conservation of
fish, wildlife, and habitat is the paramount responsibility of the Washington Department of Fish
and Wildlife (WDFW). Achieving the Department’s mandate under RCW 77.04.012 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 we
must continue to act while we still have the building blocks for success. The Department’s 25-
Year Strategic Plan lays out a roadmap for implementing the Department’s mandate and
addressing these conservation challenges, therefore building on that the Commission sets the
following policy guidance.
Definitions:
Conservation – Science-informed actions to perpetuate the health, resilience, and intrinsic
value of native species and natural ecosystems.
Ecosystem – A community of organisms and their physical environment viewed as a system of
interacting and interdependent relationships.
Ecosystem-based management – A comprehensive management approach that protects and/or
restores the function, structure, and species composition of an ecosystem, recognizing that all
components are interrelated.
Sustainability – The management of fish and wildlife resources in ways and rates that maintain
and enhance the integrity and resilience of ecosystems and the benefits that such provide to
current and future generations.
Principles:
1) Conservation first — The WDFW’s top priority is the conservation of Washington’s fish,
shellfish, and wildlife for the benefit of all state residents, current and future. Successful
conservation is the foundation supporting the spectrum of values that Washington
residents hold regarding providing sustainable recreational and commercial opportunities
including, but not limited to, hunting, fishing, and wildlife appreciation.
2) Conservation of all species, habitat, and ecosystems — To preserve functioning, resilient,
and healthy ecosystems, the WDFW shall strive to conserve fish, shellfish, and wildlife,
whether rare or common, and their habitats through ecosystem-based management. Doing
so is essential to maintain species diversity.
3) Conservation partnerships — An ecosystem-based management approach requires
strong coordination, cooperation, and collaboration with local, state, federal, and tribal
governments, non- governmental organizations, private landowners, academia, businesses,
and engaged residents. Collaboration with neighboring states and Canada is also important
because fish and wildlife distributions are not constrained by political boundaries. The
Commission recognizes that Washington’s population is diverse and growing, and that
everyone relies on and has a stake in healthy fish and wildlife and intact ecosystems to
support our quality of life. Therefore, the Commission’s outreach and resultant policies need
to be inclusive of both traditional stakeholders and the broader public in order to foster the
necessary partnerships to accomplish its mission.
4) Knowledge and science — WDFW actions and decisions shall be informed by objective,
science-based knowledge. Scientific efforts to inform the WDFW must be sufficiently broad
and multi-disciplinary, combining all related scientific fields (e.g., biological, ecological,
economic, and social) as well as other sources of information such as traditional ecological
knowledge and local knowledge. Adaptive management is a critical and required step to
implement actions learned from monitoring the decisions and actions against the results.
Adaptive management thus informs necessary changes to meet the desired outcomes.
5) Risk and uncertainty — Many, if not all, management challenges faced by the WDFW
involve some degree of uncertainty and risk to fish and wildlife. Human population growth
and expansion resulting in habitat degradation, or loss, and climate change are examples
where the uncertainty and risk may be substantial. Therefore, the WDFW shall seek to
identify and account for risks to the conservation of fish, wildlife, and habitat when deciding
whether or not to pursue a proposed action. The identified risks shall form the foundation
for monitoring and adaptive management of those decisions or actions.
6) Innovative leadership and solutions — Fish and wildlife management challenges are
exacerbated by our rapidly changing world. In response, the WDFW must be more
innovative and determined in our conservation efforts. Innovation does not always lead to
success, but the WDFW must be willing to make hard decisions, and on occasion make
course corrections, in order to learn and to develop the understanding and competence
needed to fulfill the mandate.
7) Aligning mandate, strategy, staff, and budget — To achieve the mandate expressed in
RCW 77.04.012, the WDFW must develop the necessary strategies, enlist the necessary
staff, and secure the necessary resources. To that end, the WDFW must strengthen its
communications to the public, State Legislature, and Governor regarding the need for
expanded partnerships, additional authorities, and funding.
Tribal considerations: The Commission respects and appreciates the status of the tribes as
sovereign nations. Their traditional ecological knowledge and their connections to the land and
waters offer key insights into how to conserve fish, wildlife and lands in Washington. For that
reason, nothing in this policy is designed to interpret, expand, impede or minimize tribal rights,
nor does this policy replace current or future individual WDFW-tribal memoranda of
agreement, consultation plans, co-management agreements or any other agreements between
WDFW and any tribe or tribes.
*As referenced in this policy, “WDFW” means all facets of the agency, including the
Department, the Director, and the Commission.
The foregoing policy, including its guiding principles, shall be incorporated by the WDFW in
the development and approval of the budget, planning, management, and decision-making
processes.
Ya I was wrong.
"Biodiversity extinction crisis"

Conservation of all species, habitat, and ecosystems — To preserve functioning, resilient,
and healthy ecosystems, the WDFW shall strive to conserve fish, shellfish, and wildlife,
whether rare or common, and their habitats through ecosystem-based management. Doing
so is essential to maintain species diversity.


"Rare or common" ....- means close coyote season.
It's all about carnivore.

Offline James

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #24 on: January 11, 2024, 02:37:23 PM »
When you email in your comments cc your representatives and representatives in the districts you hunt in.


https://app.leg.wa.gov/Rosters/Members

https://www.redistricting.wa.gov/district-maps-handouts
You will never shoot a camp bull by spending all your time hunting in the woods.

Offline skagitsteel

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #25 on: January 11, 2024, 07:51:18 PM »
A couple of charts I made to use in my email- feel free to use them.  One of the data points I talked about  is the widely accepted use of harvest numbers as an indicator of overall population. Numbers aren't lying, we have growth in predator number and shrinking ungulate numbers.  Gotta use the big crayons for some of the commissioners that wouldn't pass 3rd grade biology

Offline elksnout

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #26 on: January 11, 2024, 10:36:38 PM »
Why doesn’t their email open for commenting on the link provided on the first post of this thread?


elksnout
Can't we all just get along?

Offline hunter399

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #27 on: January 12, 2024, 12:17:11 AM »
A couple of charts I made to use in my email- feel free to use them.  One of the data points I talked about  is the widely accepted use of harvest numbers as an indicator of overall population. Numbers aren't lying, we have growth in predator number and shrinking ungulate numbers.  Gotta use the big crayons for some of the commissioners that wouldn't pass 3rd grade biology
Yup,not sure how we are at "unsustainable" bear and cougar population when harvest hasn't topped out and showed a decline.
Probably a good question for one of many WDFW biologist.

Pretty cool charts too man.
I've done charts before on harvest rates.
It takes time and dedication,good job man.

Offline high_hunter

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #28 on: January 12, 2024, 05:47:34 PM »
Last day to submit comments.   Let your voice be heard!
Take one new person out hunting every year.

Contact me for blood tracking needs in the Wa PNW--Skagit, Snohomish, Island, and Whatcom Counties

Offline ffhoofer

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #29 on: January 12, 2024, 06:34:50 PM »
Sent a comment earlier today

Offline TriggerMike

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #30 on: January 25, 2024, 12:22:45 PM »
Looks like the Tribes are pushing back hard on this. They're probably our only hope.

https://nwsportsmanmag.com/6-tribes-request-gov-to-gov-consultations-on-wdfw-commissions-conservation-policy/

Offline fireweed

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #31 on: January 25, 2024, 01:41:47 PM »
I watched the Big Tent committee talk about this today.  This policy won't be approved any time soon because now theY are going back to consult with tribes.  One commissioner said basically "we've heard all these comments before, there is nothing new here" , so don't put too much stock in them...Some speculated it might take to end of year to get it approved.

Offline dwils233

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #32 on: January 25, 2024, 02:44:35 PM »
Looks like the Tribes are pushing back hard on this. They're probably our only hope.

https://nwsportsmanmag.com/6-tribes-request-gov-to-gov-consultations-on-wdfw-commissions-conservation-policy/

The strongest play is to back Tribal consultation. If they have issues with it, those issues are probably more similar to the general hunting concerns than they are to anti perspectives. Best move is to hold the Commission's feet to the fire on being thorough and intentional with the Tribes now and on the Tribes' timeline
A promise made is a debt unpaid, and the trail has its own stern code

Offline TriggerMike

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #33 on: January 25, 2024, 03:13:29 PM »
Looks like the Tribes are pushing back hard on this. They're probably our only hope.

https://nwsportsmanmag.com/6-tribes-request-gov-to-gov-consultations-on-wdfw-commissions-conservation-policy/

The strongest play is to back Tribal consultation. If they have issues with it, those issues are probably more similar to the general hunting concerns than they are to anti perspectives. Best move is to hold the Commission's feet to the fire on being thorough and intentional with the Tribes now and on the Tribes' timeline
Yup, definitely.

Offline duckmen1

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #34 on: January 25, 2024, 04:05:59 PM »
I appreciate the tribes that stepped up to this matter.
Maturity is when you have the power to destroy someone who did you wrong but instead you breathe, walk away, and let life take care of them.

Online MADMAX

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #35 on: January 29, 2024, 02:14:21 PM »
Received this


Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission met Jan. 25-27 in Olympia
OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission met in Olympia Jan. 25-27, where they held committee meetings, made decisions on fisheries management and policy, discussed fishing seasons for Deer Lake, approved forest health project proposals, adopted two species status recommendations, and considered multiple fish and wildlife petitions.
On Thursday, the Commission’s Big Tent, Habitat, Fish, and Wildlife committees met to discuss a variety of topics. During the Big Tent Committee, the Committee agreed to recommend to the full Commission that they engage in government-to-government consultation with Washington tribes about the draft Conservation Policy. Committee members also heard a presentation from Department scientists and discussed progress on the Commission’s draft Best Available Science policy. Commissioner Baker resigned as chair of the Big Tent Committee, and the Committee unanimously elected Commissioner Lehmkuhl as the Committee’s new Chair.
In Thursday’s Wildlife Committee meeting, committee members discussed the timeline and reviewed the process for game management planning and rule making about bear and cougar hunting seasons. Fish Committee members heard briefings from staff and discussed fisheries data and updates about Friday agenda items, including an update on North of Falcon policy development. Thursday’s agenda concluded with the Habitat Committee meeting, where committee members heard briefings on hydraulic project approval (HPA) rule making for dock flotation and the Washington Shrubsteppe Restoration and Resiliency Initiative strategy, including the availability of the draft document for public comment. Committee members also heard a presentation from partners involved with the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan and discussed an approach for a potential land transaction in Kittitas county.
On Friday, the meeting began with affirmation by the full Commission that they would engage in government-to-government consultation with tribes about the draft Conservation Policy. Friday morning included an open public input opportunity and a report from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Director Kelly Susewind.
Next, the Commission voted to adopt the updated North of Falcon policy developed by WDFW staff. After a briefing by WDFW staff about Columbia River fisheries management, the Commission delegated rule making for Columbia River commercial logbooks to the WDFW director. Commissioners also delegated to the WDFW director the task of working with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife director to adopt concurrent fishing regulations in jointly managed waters of the Columbia River in 2024.
The Commission also decided on three public petitions. The Commission voted to deny a petition about Olympic Peninsula winter steelhead fishing, and WDFW staff committed to meet with petitioners to collaborate on the topic and discuss ideas brought forward in the petition. Commissioners also voted to deny a petition about Marine Area 13 crabbing and petition and about black bear management proposals.
On Friday, the Commission also met about three rule making topics. First, the Commission heard a briefing from WDFW staff about rule making for a proposed year-round fishing season at Deer Lake. The Commission also voted to maintain Washington endangered species status for the mardon skipper butterfly and the northern spotted owl.
Friday’s agenda ended with the Commission discussing the process they will take to respond to direction from the governor to undertake rule making to guide when wolves can be lethally removed in response to conflict with livestock. The Commission agreed to discuss the matter further in Executive Committee and return to WDFW staff with an update on how they would like to proceed.
Saturday’s agenda began with an open public input opportunity, followed by a briefing and decision on proposed forest management projects. The Commission voted to approve both projects, which are designed to improve forest health and wildlife habitat on WDFW managed lands. The Commission then held a meeting debrief and conducted future meeting planning before adjourning the January meeting.
The meeting was recorded and is available on the Commission webpage for the public to watch at their convenience.
The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is a panel appointed by the governor that sets policy for WDFW. WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.
Never argue with an idiot. They will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.
Mark Twain


I Ain't Captain Walker.
I'm The Guy Who Carries Mr. Dead In His Pocket


What would life be without the thrill of the hunt ?

Offline hunter399

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #36 on: January 29, 2024, 03:07:01 PM »
This commission just can't take a hint at all
NOBODY WANTS YOUR MADE UP DEFINITIONS OF CONSERVATION.
I'll just leave that here. :chuckle:




« Last Edit: January 29, 2024, 03:25:39 PM by hunter399 »

Offline hughjorgan

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #37 on: January 29, 2024, 06:49:35 PM »
Looks like the Tribes are pushing back hard on this. They're probably our only hope.

https://nwsportsmanmag.com/6-tribes-request-gov-to-gov-consultations-on-wdfw-commissions-conservation-policy/

The strongest play is to back Tribal consultation. If they have issues with it, those issues are probably more similar to the general hunting concerns than they are to anti perspectives. Best move is to hold the Commission's feet to the fire on being thorough and intentional with the Tribes now and on the Tribes' timeline
Yup, definitely.

… given yesterday’s stunning withdrawal of the Conservation Policy after at least six tribes and their attorneys got involved and this morning’s public comment from Lisa Wilson of the Lummi Nation who addressed Rowland’s question Thursday whether the commission had to consult with the tribes on every “policy, rule, guidance – I mean, whatever we vote on?”

“You’re damn right,” said Wilson. “If it affects our treaty rights, it has to be consultation.”

https://nwsportsmanmag.com/wa-fish-and-wildlife-commission-lurches-to-columbia-salmon-negotiation-authorization/




Offline KNOPHISH

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Re: Conservation policy comment period open Dec. 18th - Jan 12th
« Reply #38 on: January 29, 2024, 08:46:22 PM »
Cheese n rice what a mess. The Commission needs to be sent to their room and let the adults talk.
I have Man Chit to do

Offline ghosthunter

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GHOST CAMP "We Came To Hunt"
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