The state Fish and Wildlife Commission has approved amendments to cougar hunting regulations.
The commission, which sets policy for the Department of Fish and Wildlife, amended cougar hunting regulations in six counties in Eastern Washington, where a pilot project authorizing cougar hunting with the aid of dogs was not extended by the Legislature this year.
That amendment increases cougar hunting opportunities without the aid of dogs in Klickitat, Chelan, Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens and Pend Oreille counties to continue to meet management objectives in those areas, said a news release.
In addition, the commission modified the criteria for determining when cougars are removed to address public concerns about pet and livestock depredation, and personal safety. The change allows for cougar removals when complaints confirmed by department staff in a given game management unit exceed the five-year average.
Compiled by Jeffrey P. Mayor, staff writer
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