Public invited to learn about 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan revision

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will host its second virtual public meeting to discuss the 2025 update to the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) on Monday, May 5, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 

This meeting is part of the process of revising and updating Washington’s SWAP every 10 years.  

WDFW’s SWAP Coordinator will present information from the 2024 survey that followed the last round of engagement, updating the draft Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) (PDF) list, important habitat concepts, conservation themes that will be considered in the SWAP revision, and the timeline for public draft reviews this summer. 

The meeting will be held virtually via Zoom. All members of the public are welcome to attend.  

Meeting materials will be available on WDFW’s website and event webpage on April 28, 2025, before the meeting. 

Washington's SWAP is a comprehensive plan for conserving the state's fish and wildlife and the natural habitats they depend on. It is part of a nationwide effort by all 50 states and five U.S. territories to develop conservation action plans and participate in the State and Tribal Wildlife Grants (SWG) Program.  

The purpose of the SWG Program is to support state actions that broadly benefit fish and wildlife, and particularly the habitats and landscapes that support those species, as identified by each individual state. 

In 2005, the Department completed its first SWAP called the Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (CWCS). The U.S Fish and Wildlife Service requires these plans be updated every 10 years to remain eligible for SWG funding. The plan was last updated in 2015.  

The 2025 SWAP will be a complete revision of the 2015 SWAP with a revised SGCN list; new frameworks for habitats, threats, and conservation actions; and organization by ecoregions. The SWAP presents information about the status of the state's wildlife and habitats, identifies key problems they face, and outlines the actions needed to conserve biodiversity over the long term.  

For information about the SWAP, and to learn about additional public meetings discussing the 2025 revision, please visit the SWAP webpage. 

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities. 

WDFW is committed to hosting accessible events for everyone. Request ADA accommodations or language and communication services (interpreters, written information in other languages, or other services) at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, or call 833-885-1012 or TTY (711), or email CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov. WDFW encourages participants to make requests at least 20 days before the event to allow time to make the arrangements.