Washington

Wildlife mandate in statute: 

“Wildlife, fish, and shellfish are the property of the state. The commission, director, and the department shall preserve, protect, perpetuate, and manage the wildlife and food fish, game fish, and shellfish in state waters and offshore waters. The department shall conserve the wildlife and food fish, game fish, and shellfish resources in a manner that does not impair the resource. In a manner consistent with this goal, the department shall seek to maintain the economic well-being and stability of the fishing industry in the state. The department shall promote orderly fisheries and shall enhance and improve recreational and commercial fishing in this state.”

The Commission:

• Name: Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
• Regulatory or advisory: Regulatory
• Number of voting members: 9
• Term length: 6 years
• How selected: Appointed by Governor
• Senate confirmation required: Yes
• Selection criteria per statute: 

“The fish and wildlife commission consists of nine registered voters of the state…Three members shall be residents of that portion of the state lying east of the summit of the Cascade mountains, and three shall be residents of that portion of the state lying west of the summit of the Cascade mountains. Three additional members shall be appointed at large. No two members may be residents of the same county…Persons eligible for appointment as members of the commission shall have general knowledge of the habits and distribution of fish and wildlife…In making these appointments, the governor shall seek to maintain a balance reflecting all aspects of fish and wildlife, including representation recommended by organized groups representing sportfishers, commercial fishers, hunters, private landowners, and environmentalists.”

• From the Commission’s website: 

“The Commission establishes policies to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities compatible with healthy and diverse fish and wildlife populations.”

The Agency:

• Name: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
• Type: Standalone agency
• Title of Agency Director: Director
• Selection process: Appointed by the Fish and Wildlife Commission
• Mission statement from agency website: 

“To preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.”

Revenue for Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (2023-2025)

Other: Limited Fish and Wildlife (5%), Other Funds (9%)

Source: Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife 2023-25 Operating Budget