Conservation of fish, wildlife and habitat depends on public participation and cooperation in state management efforts. To encourage public involvement, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife hosts advisory groups that provide valuable input on a variety of topics, including game management, enforcement, steelhead and cutthroat policy, and wildlife areas. Committee members dedicate their time, share their knowledge and experience, and communicate the opinions and needs of stakeholders to the agency.
Each advisory group has a webpage where anyone who is interested in the committee can find more information, such as committee rosters, mission statements, meeting schedules and agendas. Individuals interested in joining an advisory group should check that committee's webpage for more information.
WDFW also works with management boards on topics like removing fish passage barriers. These boards work with other agencies and interested parties on statewide approaches to resource conservation. For more information, see the Advisory Group Handbook (PDF).
Removing barriers to participate
Advisory groups are a unique opportunity for people to share their knowledge and expertise with the Department. To reduce barriers for people to engage, WDFW offers compensation for advisory group members’ time and reimbursements for childcare, adult care, lodging, meals, and mileage.
WDFW is following guidance developed by the Office of Equity to provide compensation for people who self-attest to one of the following:
- Individual has direct personal experience in the subject matter being addressed in the advisory group.
- Individual has income not more than 400% of the federal poverty level, adjusted for family size.
Compensation rates range from $45 for one hour to $200 maximum per day. People who serve on advisory groups in a professional role and are otherwise compensated for their involvement are not eligible for WDFW compensation. Reimbursement rates are available on the Office of Financial Management’s website.
Resources for compensation and reimbursement
- How to request compensation or reimbursement guide (PDF)
- Self-attestation eligibility form
- Workgroup compensation and reimbursement form (PDF)
- WDFW volunteer webpage
Advisory groups
At the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, we celebrate diverse individuals who bring a wide range of perspectives. All are welcome to participate in our processes regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability.