ODFW seeks applicants for public at-large position on state’s Restoration & Enhancement Board

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking qualified applicants to fill a Public-At-Large position on the Restoration and Enhancement Board, which helps fund fish restoration and enhancement projects throughout the state.

Interested individuals must apply by May 15, 2024 using the application at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/RE/board.asp

The ideal candidate to fill the Public-At-Large position will be a resident of Oregon that is able to effectively represent the public on a variety of fisheries related topics.

Desirable candidate attributes include knowledge of hatcheries, fishing access, fish habitat, water conservation or similar projects related to fish or fisheries management.

Preference will be given to candidates who have previous experience with boards or commissions, and who have knowledge of, or involvement with, the diverse fish species or fisheries across Oregon.

The Restoration and Enhancement Program was created by the Oregon Legislature in 1989. The program is funded by a surcharge on sport and commercial fishing licenses and commercial poundage fees and is overseen by a seven-member citizen board.

This seven-member board is made up of three sport fishing representatives, three representatives from the commercial salmon industry and one public-at-large representative. The board reviews grant proposals from various organizations and agencies and recommends projects for funding.

Board members, who are appointed to four-year terms by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, meet two to four times each year in various communities throughout the state to review project funding applications, hear public testimony, act as liaisons between the program and the public, and to conduct other program business. Board members are volunteers; however, board related business expenses are reimbursed.

For more information, go to the R&E Program website at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/RE/ or contact Marty Olson, at (503) 947-6232 or Martin.P.Olson@ODFW.Oregon.Gov

R&E funds projects like recent improvements to Junction City Pond that improved access. https://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2024/03_Mar/030524.asp