Fish and Wildlife commissioner resigns

OLYMPIA – There are now two vacancies on the state Fish and Wildlife Commission.

In a letter Monday, Dec. 13, to Gov. Jay Inslee, Commissioner Fred Koontz, Ph.D. of King County resigned form the at-large seat on the nine-member board after less than a year in the position.

The board is appointed by the governor and provides guidance on fish and wildlife issues.

The opening is the second on the board — there is an open seat representing Eastern Washington, as well.

The commission comprises nine members — three from each side of the Cascades and three "at-large" members from anywhere in the state. Only one commissioner is allowed from a county.

Appointees have to be confirmed by the state Senate.