Washington CWD Advisory Council Applicants Sought

THE FOLLOWING IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking applicants for a new Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Advisory Council.

The Department is forming a community-based group specifically focused on advising WDFW’s director on implementation of the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Plan. This group will also provide input on a University of Washington social science research project that seeks to understand the uncertainties, risk perceptions, and issues of trust that may define public support and opposition for CWD management.

WDFW Director Kelly Susewind will appoint between 12 and 16 members to the group based on their interest in CWD and their ability to communicate their perspectives in a productive manner to the Department and stakeholders.

The Department seeks applicants that represent a broad range of members. All members of the public are invited to apply 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.

To ensure the group represents a diversity of views, WDFW especially encourages applicants who can represent urban and rural communities, agricultural and timbered landscapes, land trusts, hunters, anglers, wildlife enthusiasts, academia, and conservation organizations to apply. Applicants may be affiliated with an organized group, but affiliation is not required. Applications must be submitted in writing with the following information:

• Applicant’s name, address, telephone number, and email address.
• Explanation of interest and reasons for wanting to serve as a member of the advisory council.
• Demonstrated effectiveness in communication.
• Ability to attend weekday and weekend meetings, both in person and virtually.

Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, 2022 to Donny Martorello, Wildlife Program Chief Scientist by email or by mail at Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, PO Box 43141, Olympia, WA 98504-3141.

CWD Advisory Council members are appointed to terms ranging from one to three years. Members should be available for meetings beginning as early as mid-January 2023. Council members, upon request, can be reimbursed by WDFW for travel expenses to attend meetings.

As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Department expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. WDFW aims to ensure that all individuals feel welcome and are treated fairly and respectfully.

WDFW public meetings are held in ADA-accessible locations, provide assistive listening devices, and welcome caregivers accompanied by children. Automated technology-based translation assistance is available through the Department’s web, virtual meeting, and online public feedback processes. To support equal access, staff are also available to arrange free and timely assistance when needed and notified. Learn more on the WDFW website, by calling 360-902-2349, TTY (711), or emailing Title6@dfw.wa.gov.