Department of Environmental and Natural Resources
Director, Cindy Spiry
GIS Manager/Energy Auditor, Neal Jander
Water Quality Manager Matt Baerwalde
Cultural Coordinator/Energy Auditor Adam Osbekoff
Biological Technician, Heather Minnella
News
Master Hunter
Permit Program will
accept applications starting Jan. 1
OLYMPIA-The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will accept
enrollment applications for its Master Hunter Permit program from
Jan. 1 through Feb. 15.
WDFW enlists master hunters for controlled hunts to remove problem
animals that damage property or threaten public safety. Master
hunters also participate in volunteer projects involving access to
private lands, habitat enhancement, and landowner relations.
To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate a high
level of hunting skill and demonstrate a commitment to lawful and
ethical hunting practices, said Sgt. Carl Klein, manager of the WDFW
Hunter Education Division.
"This program was designed to create a pool of highly qualified
hunters who can help the department manage wildlife in sensitive
situations," Klein said. "This is a great opportunity for
conscientious, committed hunters to assume a leadership role among
their peers."
Hunters enrolling in the program must pay a non-refundable $50
application fee, pass a criminal background check, pass a written
exam and meet other qualifications described on the Master Hunter
website (
http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/masterhunter/
). The application form is also available on that website.
Klein encourages hunters who enroll in the program to prepare
thoroughly for the written test, because applicants are allowed only
one chance to re-take the exam.
Those who successfully complete the enrollment process will receive
a master hunter patch and identification card, and will be eligible
to participate in depredation hunts.