The Coastal Conversation Association (CCA) of Washington recently published a “Call to Action” which clearly states how bad things have gotten in our fisheries management.

The ugly truth of how destructive the culture of secrecy within the WDFW is clearly outlined by CCA’s call to action.  We had hopes that with a new Commission Chairmen and new Director of WDFW we would see some positive action for true transparency, yet, it is apparent, things have just gotten worse.   Here is CCA’s call to action:

“WDFW continued their attacks on conservation and sport fisheries in 2019, with two more policy decisions that are best described as mind boggling. Following their effective neutering of the Columbia River Fishery Reforms, in the past two weeks the Department has weakened conservation and sport fishing priorities on Willapa Bay, and then abandoned anglers in Puget Sound in favor of treaty gill net fisheries.

Despite these ill-conceived policy decisions which harm recreational fisheries and conservation initiatives, WDFW is continuing to lobby the legislature for a license fee increase, along with the continuation of the Columbia River Salmon & Steelhead Endorsement Fee.

CCA recently sent a coalition letter to the legislature asking them to reverse the reckless Columbia River decision and the disastrous mis-management of Puget Sound sport fisheries as part of WDFW’s budget and fee increase legislation. Unfortunately, the letter predated the latest Willapa Bay and Puget Sound decisions. Here’s what you can do:
 
Click below to send your legislators a pre-drafted email telling them you OPPOSE WDFW’s fee increase and Columbia River endorsement legislation (HB 1708/SB 5692) unless the legislature reigns in an out-of-control WDFW.”

It is obvious we must continue to fight for our right to have public oversight over the Commission.