§ 12.5 - Lands Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Commission

• Jurisdiction: Washington

§12.5 LANDS MANAGED BY THE FISH AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) acquires land to conserve fish and wildlife and to provide related recreational activities. The agency manages over 150 areas offering wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. Information about WDFW is available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov.

(1) Agency authority and decision-making structure

WDFW consists of the nine-member Fish and Wildlife Commission, appointed by the governor, and the director hired by the Fish and Wildlife Commission. The powers granted to the WDFW are codified under Title 77 RCW, with a few additional statutes in Chapter 43.300 RCW. The Fish and Wildlife Commission has authority to delegate to the director any of the powers and duties vested in the Fish and Wildlife Commission. RCW 43.300.040; RCW 77.04.020.

The Fish and Wildlife Commission has authority to acquire and manage lands for various purposes consistent with Title 77 RCW. RCW 77.12.037. The Fish and Wildlife Commission can acquire "by gift, easement, purchase, lease, or condemnation lands, buildings, water rights, rights-of-way, or other...property." Id. The Fish and Wildlife Commission may sell or...