OLYMPIA – The Washington departments of Natural Resources and Fish and Wildlife are now accepting applications for 15 volunteer spots on a new Youth Education and Outreach Program Committee. Applications are open through Jan. 19, 2026.
The Youth Education and Outreach Program Committee will provide a forum for educators, parents, and other community members to share feedback and collaborate with the departments on program development, teacher training, curriculum design, and youth engagement initiatives. Both departments currently offer youth education programs and are seeking to enhance these efforts through stronger coordination and community input.
“We’re thrilled to launch this new committee to strengthen coordination, partnerships, and best practices for environmental education statewide,” said Lindsay Walker, conservation education coordinator at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “Through this committee, we hope to inspire the next generation of fish and wildlife stewards through meaningful conservation education opportunities.”
“Our youth education program seeks to meet the needs of Washington youth and educators. This committee will allow us to hear from key constituencies so that we can deliver equitable, effective programming,” said Clare Sobetski, Youth Education Program Manager at the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “We believe there is so much to be learned by launching this committee in partnership with WDFW.”
Committee members will attend a 90-minute virtual meeting each quarter, with the first meeting expected in late February or early March 2026. Members will serve on the committee for one or two year terms.
For more information about the committee and details to apply, refer to DNR’s website. The application will be available through Jan. 19.
Committees are a unique opportunity for people to share their knowledge and expertise with state agencies. To reduce barriers to engagement, the state offers compensation for committee members’ time and reimbursements for childcare and adult care. WDFW and DNR follow guidelines from the Office of Equity for compensation and reimbursements.
Washington residents who serve on committees in a professional role and are otherwise compensated for their involvement are not eligible for compensation.
All members of the public are invited to share their perspectives and participate in 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.
WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.
DNR works to manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.