APPLY NOW: Oregon at-large seat on Pacific Fishery Management Council
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is accepting nominations for a seat on the Pacific Fishery Management Council. The term for this Oregon at-large seat begins on Aug. 11, 2026.
Nominations must be submitted by Jan. 23, 2026. The current seat holder, Brad Pettinger, is not eligible for re-appointment, having completed his full allotment of terms. Nominations will be forwarded to the Governor, who will then send at least three candidates to the National Marine Fisheries Service for consideration. Successful candidates will be required to pass an extensive FBI background check.
The Pacific Fishery Management Council manages fisheries for approximately 119 species off the coasts of Oregon, Wash., and California The Council's membership includes 14 voting members who represent various stakeholders, including tribal and state fish and wildlife agencies, as well as citizens knowledgeable about sport and commercial fishing.
Candidates should possess knowledge of fishery resource conservation and management in U.S. West Coast marine waters. Experience in managing fishery-related issues is important, as well as a strong conservation ethic. Members are expected to make significant time commitments to participate in Council business and related activities.
The Council was established under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which governs fisheries from three to 200 miles offshore of the U.S. coastline, holding authority over crucial coastal fishery resources. This legislative framework is designed to support sustainable fisheries management and ensure viable fish populations for future generations.
The nomination period will remain open until Jan. 23, 2026 and those interested in running should contact Jessica Watson for more information at 541-351-1196 or jessica.l.watson@odfw.oregon.gov. The Governor will review nominations before making recommendations on appointments.
