ODFW seeks two candidates for Fish Passage Task Force, June 19

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife seeks two members to represent the public-at-large on the state’s Fish Passage Task Force. Applications will be accepted through July 31, 2015. The Fish Passage Program administers the statutes and rules related to the passage of native migratory fish in Oregon’s rivers and streams. “The task force is instrumental in the implementation of Oregon’s Fish Passage Policy,” said Greg Apke, ODFW Fish Passage Program Coordinator. “Its role in bringing different perspectives into the fish passage arena creates a program that is responsive to both fish passage and societal needs.” The Task Force advises the ODFW Director and the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission on matters related to passage issues such as program development and implementation, fish passage waivers and exemptions, funding, monitoring, reporting to joint legislative committee, and project prioritization. The nine members of the Fish Passage Task Force are appointed by the ODFW Director. Task Force members represent water users or other owners of artificial obstructions, fisheries and conservation interests, and the general public. Landowners and operators must provide for passage of adult and juvenile native migratory fish whenever there is new construction, major replacement or modification, a permit change, or abandonment of artificial obstructions. Individuals interested in serving on the ODFW Fish Passage Task Force can request additional information or an application from Greg Apke, ODFW Fish Passage Program Coordinator, at (503) 947-6228 or greg.d.apke@state.or.us. Additional information and the application is also available on the ODFW Fish Passage Program website at ODFW Fish Passage Task Force.