From Science to Decisions: The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission Seeks Public Input on its Draft Policy

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is currently seeking public input on a draft policy that outlines how they will use science in their decision-making process. This policy, known as the Best Available Science Policy, is open for review until May 24, as announced in a news release by the commission.

Commissioners have been discussing and working on this policy for a while now, with the goal of finalizing it by summer. John Lehmkuhl, a commissioner and chair of the Big Tent Committee, emphasized the importance of public feedback in improving the policy to ensure that the best available science is used in their decision-making processes.

The two-page document includes various bullet points that outline how the commission and Department of Fish and Wildlife should approach and incorporate science into their work. This includes avoiding bias in interpreting studies and utilizing social science to inform decisions. The policy also addresses situations where there are conflicting interpretations or studies, stating that information provided by WDFW should be considered acceptable and sufficient.

Those interested in reading the full policy can find it on the WDFW website. Public comments on the policy can be submitted online or via email to bestavailablescience@publicinput.com. This engagement will help shape the final policy that will guide the commission and department in their use of science in decision-making.