Meeting on Washington hunting issue tonight in Spokane

HUNTING — Washington wildlife managers are conducting public meetings this week, including one tonight in Spokane, to discuss some of the issues being raised before any formal proposals are made for changes in the 2015-17 hunting regulations.

Issues for discussion have been compiled from comments by sportsmen since June on this Department of Fish and Wildlife web page . Comments on the alternatives will be accepted through Sept. 20.

Issues currently under consideration by the department for upcoming seasons include:

• Setting spring and fall black bear seasons.
• Early archery elk seasons.
• Modern firearm mule deer seasons.
• Hunting equipment, including non-toxic ammunition, expandable broadheads and crossbows.
• Special permit drawings.
• Baiting big game.

Public meetings in this region are set for 7 p.m. in:

• Spokane, TONIGHT, Aug. 19, at Centerplace Regional Events Center 2426 N Discovery Pl.
• Moses Lake, Wednesday, Aug. 20, at Big Bend Community College ATEC Center, 7611 Bolling St. NE.