January 11-12, 2013 Audio Transcripts

1. Call to Order

Download MP3 File [5.0 MB]

2. Open Public Input

Download MP3 File [1.7 MB]

The Commission is a direct link between citizens of Washington and the Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Comments on Department programs and topics of concern are welcome during this portion of the meeting.

NOTE: During this portion of the meeting, the public is encouraged to comment on issues that do not already have public input time on the agenda.

3. Director's Report 

Download MP3 File [29.3 MB]

The Director will brief the Commission on various items, including:

4. WAC 220-20-010 - Structural Improvements and Updates - Decision

Download MP3 File [7.9 MB]

Department staff will request approval on the proposed amendments to WAC 220-20-010 to split this rule apart. The changes will clarify, reorganize, and restructure the content of the WAC. 

Staff Report:
Joanna Eide, Administrative Regulations Analyst, Enforcement Program

5. 2013 North of Falcon Policy C-3608 - Briefing and Public Hearing

Download MP3 File [30.0 MB]

Department staff will provide a briefing on the North of Falcon Policy C-3608 and propose modifications for the Commission’s consideration to the 2013 through 2014 policy.

Staff Report:
Pat Pattillo, Salmon Policy Coordinator and John Long, Statewide Salmon Manager

6. Proposed Land Transaction - Decision

Download MP3 File [3.8 MB]

The Commission will consider approval of various land transactions recommended by the Department for the protection of critical fish and wildlife habitat, enhancement of public recreation opportunities, and responsible property management.

• Proposed sale of the 19.4 acre Colville Fish Hatchery property to Stevens County

Staff Report:
Dan Budd, Real Estate Section Manager, Wildlife Program

7. Puget Sound Watershed Characterization Project - Briefing

Download MP3 File [0.5 MB]

Department staff will brief the Commission on the Puget Sound Watershed Characterization Project. 

Item deferred for Executive Session.  Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i), the Commission met in executive session to discuss with legal counsel representing the agency litigation or potential litigation to which the agency is, or is likely to become, a party.

Staff Report:
George Wilhere, Research Scientist
Timothy Quinn, Chief Scientist, Habitat Program

8. Enforcement Program Staffing Study - Briefing

Download MP3 File [0.5 MB]

Department staff will provide a briefing to the Commission on current staffing levels in the Enforcement Program.

Item deferred for Executive Session. Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i), the Commission met in executive session to discuss with legal counsel representing the agency litigation or potential litigation to which the agency is, or is likely to become, a party.

Staff Report:
Bruce Bjork, Chief, Enforcement Program

9. 2013 – 2014 Sportfishing Rule Proposals – Briefing

Download MP3 File [31.9 MB]

Department staff will brief the Commission on the upcoming Sportfishing rules and regulations for the 2013-14 season.

Staff Report:
Craig Burley, Fish Management Division Manager, Fish Program

10. Giant Pacific Octopus - Briefing

Download MP3 File [12.4 MB]

Department staff will provide a briefing on giant pacific octopus and will seek guidance from the Commission on the scope of policy options, process and schedule to address protection of the Giant Pacific Octopus in waters of the Puget Sound.

Staff Report:
Craig Burley, Fish Management Division Manager, Fish Program

11. Open Public Input

Download MP3 File [4.2 MB]

The Commission is a direct link between citizens of Washington and the Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Comments on Department programs and topics of concern are welcome during this portion of the meeting.

NOTE: During this portion of the meeting, the public is encouraged to comment on issues that do not already have public input time on the agenda.

12. Columbia River Fishery Management - Decision

Download MP3 File [101.8 MB]

Department staff will review and discuss the draft Columbia River Fishery Management policy with the Commission.

Staff Report:
Guy Norman, Regional Director

13. Executive Session

Download MP3 File [0.2 MB]

Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(g), the Commission will meet in executive session to review the performance of a public employee. No action will be taken in executive session, and the public is not permitted to listen to the executive session.

Item deferred to February 8-9, 2013 meeting      

14. Miscellaneous and Meeting Debrief 

Download MP3 File [0.2 MB]

The Commission will discuss items that arise immediately before or during the meeting and after the preliminary agenda is published.