Washington: WDFW Creates Advisory Committee to Address Target Shooting Concerns in Central Washington

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has announced the formation of a “Wenas Wildlife Area Target Shooting Advisory Committee” to address the WDFW’s target shooting concerns in the Wenas Wildlife Area in Central Washington.

Last fall, the WDFW proposed closing the 115,000 acre Wenas Wildlife Area to recreational shooting, only allowing shooting in one of two proposed range sites.  Recreational shooting has long occurred in the wildlife area, and the use of these public lands has been enjoyed by generations of shooters from across Washington.  Thanks to the public opposition from NRA members, shooters, hunters, local legislators and elected officials, the WDFW did not move forward with their proposed closure and is now forming an advisory committee to help find solutions for their concerns.

We are asking those of you who use and depend on the availability of the Wenas Wildlife Area for shooting and hunting to apply to serve on this advisory committee.  There is a lot at stake, and it’s important for shooters and hunters to be represented on this committee!

The Target Shooting Committee will meet in Selah, at least monthly, through the 2017-2018 winter season.  In addition to attending committee meetings, members will also be asked to participate in public workshops and open houses.

All applications are due by 5:00pm on April 14th to Regional Wildlife Program Manager, Scott McCorquodale.  Applications may be found here and submitted by email to [email protected], or mailed to him at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 1701 S 24th Ave., Yakima, WA 98902.

Keeping public lands open for target shooting and hunting is a priority of the NRA’s, and we will continue to oppose any proposals for the Wenas Wildlife Area which would restrict shooters and hunters from using public lands.  Again, please consider applying to serve on the advisory committee!