OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking information from the public to inform species status reports the Department is developing about ground squirrels in Washington.

WDFW is currently seeking information about Washington ground squirrel and Townsend’s ground squirrel. WDFW is specifically looking for information about the species’ demographics, current habitat conditions, threats and trends to populations, and existing conservation measures that have benefitted the species.

"We are interested in hearing from members of the public, including non-governmental organizations, universities, private researchers, and naturalists, who might have relevant information about these ground squirrel species," said Taylor Cotten, WDFW conservation assessment section manager. "You could have valuable data, such as annual population counts or privately developed habitat management plans, that can help us better understand the conservation status of these ground squirrels in Washington."

The public may submit written comments via email or by mailing Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife ATTN: Taylor Cotten, P.O. Box 43141, Olympia, WA 98504. Further public comment opportunities will be available during the development of each individual status report.

All members of the public are invited to share their perspectives and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, or basis of disability.

The current comment opportunity is part of a process to assess the conservation status of each species and develop foundational information to guide further recovery and conservation actions. After developing each status report, Department staff will brief the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission on each species’ status and the Department’s classification recommendation. Any changes to a species’ classification are subject to the public rule making process.

Department staff will post updated status reports to WDFW's website as they are completed.

WDFW works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.