WDFW seeks members for advisory group on hydraulic regulations that protect fish

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking candidates to fill up to seven positions on a volunteer committee that advises the Department in administering a state law designed to protect fish in Washington waters.

That law, known as the Hydraulic Code, has been in effect since 1943 to ensure that projects such as bulkheads, culverts, and dock construction meet state standards for fish and shellfish protection.

The Department will accept applications and nominations to its Hydraulic Code Implementation Community Advisory Group through Feb. 24, 2023.

The advisory group provides input to WDFW staff on implementation of the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permitting program to maintain and improve consistency and effectiveness of the HPA program, improve the soundness of permits, increase public understanding about the importance of the HPA, and improve HPA implementation outcomes.

Upcoming discussion topics may include integrating emerging science into the HPA permitting program, fish passage rules, updating the online HPA permitting system, compliance, and climate change in HPA permitting.

The Department will select advisors based on applicant experience, ability to contribute diverse perspectives and address issues in a thoughtful and productive manner, willingness to engage, and ability to communicate with staff and others. Applicants are not required to be affiliated with an organized group or have professional HPA experience. Anyone is encouraged to apply, including those who may require reasonable accommodations to participate as an advisory committee member.

Those interested should review the Hydraulic Code Implementation Community Advisory Group webpage and the WDFW Advisory Member Handbook.

Applications and nominations must be submitted in writing and address the following items:

The applicant or nominee's name, address, telephone number, and email address. (People or groups making nominations must also submit their own names and contact information.)

The candidate's relevant experience, organizational affiliations, and reasons why they would be an effective advisory group member.

Familiarity with Washington's HPA permitting program and HPA implementation.

Application letters must be received by WDFW no later than Feb. 24, 2023.

Submit applications and nominations by email to or by mail to Theresa Nation, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 43200, Olympia, WA 98504-3200.

Applicants should be available twice a year for regular advisory group meetings, which may be held in-person, virtually, or in a hybrid format, with additional meetings as needed.

More information about the advisory group is available on WDFW's website.

All members of the public are invited to share their perspective and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, or basis of disability.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.