WDFW opens public comment on 2024-2028 North of Falcon policy
A photo of operations at a Washington salmon fishery, the subjects of the updated North of Falcon policy draft for 2024 to 2028, which the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife recently opened for public comment.
COURTESY PHOTO/WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
OLYMPIA — The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has opened the public comment period for its updated draft of the North of Falcon Policy for the 2024-2028 salmon fishery planning process, according to a Dec. 22 announcement from WDFW. Comments will be accepted through Jan. 15.
The announcement stated the draft of the North of Falcon Policy directs the WDFW to manage salmon and steelhead fisheries using a science-based, transparent approach that is consistent with all conservation and legal obligations.
“Public feedback on this updated policy is critical,” wrote Kyle Adicks, WDFW Intergovernmental Salmon Manager, in the announcement. “This policy will provide guidance to the Department on how to plan and implement fisheries around the state within the complex legal and conservation frameworks that overlay salmon management.”
The annual North of Falcon salmon season-setting process is where state, federal, and tribal fishery managers work together to plan Washington’s commercial and recreational fishing seasons with input from the public, said the statement. Each year, WDFW hosts more than a dozen public meetings in winter and spring to gather initial public input around the state.
The public is invited to comment on the draft policy by submitting written comments via email at northoffalconfwcpolicy2024-28@publicinput.com, or by phone at 855-925-2801. Public comments received will be summarized for the WDFW Commission as they consider the adoption of an updated policy during their January meeting. The full draft policy is available at bit.ly/NorthofFalcon.
According to the announcement, all members of the public are invited to share their diverse perspectives and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran or basis of disability.