NEWPORT, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is accepting nominations for a seat on the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council). The three-year term for this Oregon obligatory seat begins Aug. 10.

Anyone interested in being considered, or wishing to nominate someone, must contact Jessica Watson at 541-351-1196 or jessica.l.watson@odfw.oregon.gov no later than Feb. 9. Completed application packets must be submitted no later than Feb. 16, 2024.

The Oregon obligatory seat currently is held by Christa Svensson who is eligible for re-appointment to another three-year term. ODFW will send all nominations to the Governor who will then forward the names of at least three candidates to the National Marine Fisheries Service (in the U.S. Department of Commerce) for consideration. Successful appointees must pass an extensive FBI background check.

The Council manages fisheries for approximately 119 species of salmon, groundfish, coastal pelagic species (sardines, anchovies, and mackerel), Pacific halibut, and highly migratory species (tunas, sharks, and swordfish) off the coasts of Oregon, Washington, and California. It includes 14 voting members representing tribal and state fish and wildlife agencies and private citizens knowledgeable about sport fishing, commercial fishing and/or marine conservation.

The ideal candidate would be knowledgeable about fishery resource conservation and management in marine waters off the West Coast. Specific knowledge of and experience in management issues and fisheries is important as is a strong conservation ethic.

The successful candidate works collectively with other Council members, often making difficult decisions to fulfill the standards set forth by the Magnuson-Stevens Act. Members make a substantial time commitment to fully participate in the five Council meetings and other required Council business and related activities.

The Pacific Fishery Management Council is one of eight regional fishery management councils established by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to manage fisheries from three to 200 miles offshore of the United States coastline. The Pacific Council is responsible for fisheries off the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington.