WDFW Establishes New Habitat Conservation Working Group

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is calling for nominations of persons to serve on a new working group called the Habitat Conservation Plan Advisory Committee.

The WDFW press release, citing information provided by Greg Hueckel, assistant director of WDFW's habitat program, states that the new group "will consist of up to 24 advisors who will provide guidance on the development of a conservation plan to protect sensitive fish and shellfish species potentially affected by hydraulic project activities."

“We’ve contacted a variety of interest groups and individuals to make sure the new committee reflects all points of view as we develop this important plan," the release quotes Hueckel as saying. It then goes on to report that "(I)nvitations have been sent to tribal representatives, businesses, government agencies and environmental organizations."

Owing to WDFW requirements that prospectors and miners possess hydraulic project approval before commencing activities, one wonders if they will also be represented on the new committee?

The group is slated to start work this spring and is expected to continue for two years. The deadline for nominations is April 1. Nominations may be directed to Carol Piening, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Habitat Program, 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia, WA 98501-1091. Or by email to carol.piening@dfw.wa.gov.

Further information is available from the WDFW press release at the link here.