Washington surveys public on wildlife management

WILDLIFE — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is conducting a public opinion survey to help identify key wildlife issues to be addressed in the department’s 2015-2021 Game Management Plan.

The information gathered from the survey will help WDFW update its current plan, originally developed in 2003 and updated in 2009. The plan guides the long-term management of game species, and is used to develop three-year hunting packages that set annual regulations for hunting seasons.

The survey is available on WDFW’s website through Jan. 3.

The opinion survey addresses a number of game management issues, including:

• Hunter recruitment and retention
• Hunting regulations
• Land access for hunting
• Wildlife conflict
• Habitat enhancement
• Specific species

WDFW officials say they will incorporate survey results into a draft plan, which will go out for public comment next spring. The plan will be considered for final approval by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission next summer.