2017 sportfishing regulations are set

•Multiple Lower Columbia tributaries will only be open to the harvest of hatchery salmon to protect wild tule fall Chinook. The majority of salmon in these areas are hatchery fish so this change is expected to have minimal impact.

•New regulations and an updated map will more clearly designate the fishing areas in Herman Creek located in the Columbia River Zone.

Additionally, the Commission approved funding Restoration and Enhancement Projects, which enhance production or provide public access to fishing waters.

Approved projects included a new youth fishing pond in Camp Sherman, where the Commission directed staff to work with the community to address concerns.

The Commission was also briefed on the work to date of the Joint Interim Task Force On Funding for Fish, Wildlife, and Related Outdoor Recreation and Education and the Wolf Plan Review.

ODFW wolf program staff will be back before the Commission Oct. 7 in La Grande to discuss public testimony at both the October and December meetings.

Final plan adoption is not expected until 2017.

Finally, the Commission adopted mule deer and elk management objectives (MOs) as proposed by staff.

Many of Oregon’s 67 wildlife management units have a buck and bull ratio MO.

MOs are not the maximum number of animals a unit can support, but a compromise to maintain deer and elk numbers at levels compatible with primary land uses, limit damage to private property, while maximizing recreational benefits.

For more information and ODFW news, call Michelle Dennehy at 503-947-6022.