New Report Shows Signs of Progress for Salmon But Far Too Many Still Are on the Brink of Extinction

OLYMPIA–A new report released by the Governor’s Salmon Recovery Office shows that several populations of salmon in Washington improved but most still are struggling and face extinction. Of the 14 species of salmon and steelhead in Washington listed as at risk of extinction under the federal Endangered Species Act, six are improving. However, eight still […]

May 27, 2025
Climate Commitment Act Awards More Than $71 Million for Salmon Recovery Projects

OLYMPIA–Nearly 70 projects to restore salmon habitat across the state were funded thanks to the Climate Commitment Act, the Recreation and Conservation Office announced today. Lawmakers passed the act in 2021 and voters reaffirmed it in November. The act created a program to require the state’s largest polluters to reduce greenhouse gas pollution, a known […]

April 28, 2025
Governor Declares Invasive Species Awareness Week

OLYMPIA–Gov. Bob Ferguson, in partnership with the Washington Invasive Species Council, has proclaimed February 24-28 as Washington Invasive Species Awareness Week in solidarity with National Invasive Species Awareness Week. “Invasive species and noxious weeds already are a big problem in Washington and species that have yet to reach our state could pose even greater challenges […]

February 11, 2025
Invasive Species Council Recognizes Leaders

OLYMPIA–The Washington Invasive Species Council recognized three top leaders for achievements in managing and preventing the spread of invasive plants and animals at a first-of-its-kind recognition awards ceremony in December. “These are new awards, and they celebrate the contributions of people who are working hard to protect Washington’s rich natural heritage and ensure that non-native […]

December 9, 2024
State Awards Grants for Outdoor Recreation Facilities in Underserved Communities

Kent Receives Grant in National Competition OLYMPIA–The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) today announced the award of 29 grants to build or improve outdoor recreation facilities, many in communities with too few or dilapidated parks. “We know that spending time outside provides so many mental and physical health benefits,” said Megan Duffy, RCO’s […]

October 22, 2024
Spokane Tribal Citizen Joins State Recreation and Salmon Agency as Liaison

OLYMPIA–The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office has hired a member of the Spokane Tribe of Indians as its first tribal affairs director. Dawn Pullin joined the agency from the Washington State Patrol, where she served as the tribal liaison for nearly four years, working to address the missing and murdered indigenous persons crisis. “We’re […]

October 14, 2024