To: The Office of Governor Jay Inslee
Cc: Ruth Musgrave, Senior Policy Advisor for Natural Resources
Subject: Fish and Wildlife Commission Reappointment- Molly Linville
Dear Governor Inslee,
On behalf of the Washington Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, an organization representing thousands of dedicated members and supporters across the state, we write to express our strong support for the reappointment of Commissioner Molly Linville to the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission. Whether the reappointment is made under your administration or deferred to Governor-elect Ferguson, we believe Commissioner Linville is an essential voice for the future of Washington’s natural resources. Her continued service would strengthen the integrity of the Commission and ensure that its work is guided by experience, balance, and a dedication to the public good.
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is a national organization committed to protecting public lands, waters, and wildlife, ensuring sustainable access for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anglers alike. Our Washington chapter, through thoughtful advocacy and engagement, has been a consistent voice for ethical wildlife management and balanced conservation policies. It is within this context that we urge the reappointment of Commissioner Linville, whose perspective and leadership are critical to the Commission's ability to fulfill its mission.
Commissioner Linville brings a unique and invaluable voice to the Fish and Wildlife Commission. As a professional working in agriculture and a trained wildlife biologist, she bridges the often-divided worlds of rural communities and conservation advocacy. Her firsthand experience living and working in Eastern Washington gives her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those closest to our state’s natural resources. Her ability to integrate this knowledge into Commission discussions ensures that decisions reflect the needs of Washington’s diverse landscapes and communities. Having served as the Commission’s vice-chair, Commissioner Linville also possesses an unparalleled grasp of governance, policy development, and stakeholder relationships. She has consistently demonstrated a commitment to science-based wildlife management, ethical stewardship of public resources, and equitable access to public lands. Her steady leadership, even in challenging and sometimes contentious situations, has earned her the respect of her peers, Department staff, and the broader public.
While our organization does not always align with every decision she makes, we deeply respect her thoughtful and transparent decision-making process. In an environment that has at times been marked by controversy, Commissioner Linville’s ability to navigate complex issues with grace and fairness has been a stabilizing force for the Commission and the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Thank you for considering this endorsement. The Washington Chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers stands ready to support the Fish and Wildlife Commission in its vital role of conserving and managing our state’s resources for the benefit of all Washingtonians.
Respectfully,
Josh Wilund
Co-Chair
Washington Chapter, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
Dan Wilson
Co-Chair
Washington Chapter, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
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