Out and about: Panel supports needs of orcas

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission has signaled its support for state fishery managers’ plans to consider the dietary needs of endangered orcas when they set this year’s salmon-fishing seasons.

The commission, a citizen panel appointed by the governor to set policy for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), directed the department to take that action in a policy adopted at a public meeting Jan. 11-12 in Olympia.

The policy also calls on WDFW to take steps to protect southern resident killer whales from disruptions from fishing vessel traffic.

Ron Warren, head of WDFW’s Fish Program, welcomed the new policy.

“While state fishing seasons have long been subject to federal review, this new policy confirms that WDFW must play a leading role in orca recovery,” Warren said.

Consistent with the recommendations of the state’s Southern Resident Orca Task Force, WDFW is also seeking state funding to:

• Increase salmon production at state hatcheries by 24 million fish during the next two years — and to increase that number to 50 million fish in the 2021-23 biennium.

• Beef up WDFW patrols that enforce boating regulations to protect orcas.

• Improve habitat essential for salmon survival.