An Olympic marmot. (Photo by Kiley Barbero, courtesy of Center for Biological Diversity)
Washington wildlife officials are beginning to plan for how to conserve the state’s species and habitats for the next decade.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is updating its State Wildlife Action Plan , a roadmap for how the state should focus conservation efforts and what species and habitats to prioritize.
It will take about a year of research and community engagement before the plan is finalized, but once it is, it will help guide the work of state agencies and conservation groups.
Over the next year, the department is opening public comment and surveys on the plan and encouraging anyone interested to get involved. The final document is due to the federal government by Oct. 1, 2025.
Biodiversity helps everyone in Washington, said Wendy Connally, State Wildlife Action Plan coordinator.
“If you’re interested in habitat at home, there’s a place for you in the SWAP,” she said. “If you’re interested in walking in the park in an urban area, there’s a place for you in the SWAP. If you want to be in the wildlands and climb rocks and watch birds, there’s a place for you in the SWAP.”