OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is now accepting public comments on proposed changes to rules prescribing how the Department compensates commercial livestock producers for losses from wildlife depredations.
One rule change proposal would adjust how WDFW determines the value of a livestock producer’s loss and, therefore, what compensation is appropriate. Proposed rule language would add more options for what records WDFW can accept for valuation assessments and simplify the process of identifying a qualified livestock assessor when one is needed to determine loss value.
Other rule change proposals restructure how the relevant Washington Administrative Code (WAC) is written and are intended to improve how WDFW processes livestock depredation claims. WDFW is proposing adding new definitions and terminology to the WAC to clarify parts of the livestock depredation claim process. In addition to improving process, clarifying the type of information required for livestock producers to submit with a claim, and making the compensation process easier to understand and follow, the proposed language changes also help ensure consistency between WAC and state statute.
Full descriptions of each proposed rule change are available on WDFW’s rule making webpage.
WDFW considered several recommendations from Washington’s Wolf Advisory Group when developing this rule proposal. To develop their recommendations, the advisory group thoroughly reviewed the current livestock compensation rules as well as claimants’ reported challenges with the current rule provisions.
The public comment period is open through March 16. The public may submit comments online, via email, by phone (855-925-2801, project code 5621), or by mailing WDFW ATTN: Wildlife Program, P.O. Box 43200, Olympia, WA, 98504.
WDFW will also hold a public hearing about the rule proposal during the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission’s March hybrid meeting in Walla Walla. Those interested in commenting during the Commission meeting must register online.
All members of the public are invited to share their perspectives and participate in WDFW 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.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.