SPRINGFIELD – The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, during a meeting in Springfield in late February, voted 6-1 to deny a petition aimed at modifying crab fishery rules to reduce the risk of whale entanglement further.
While rejecting the petition, the Commission urged the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to continue its planned rulemaking process and collaborate with NOAA Fisheries to secure Endangered Species Act coverage.
According to ODF officials, whale entanglements along the Oregon coast have risen since 2014, largely due to an increasing humpback whale population and changing ocean conditions.
Most of these whales are classified as Threatened or Endangered.
The decision came after commissioners reviewed extensive public comments and testimony from nearly 70 individuals, including crab fishermen and members of environmental organizations.
Although the petition was denied, it would not have altered current regulations but aimed to initiate a public rulemaking process.
ODFW staff recommended acceptance of the petition, citing ongoing rulemaking plans for 2026 that focus on reducing entanglement risks and exploring innovative fishing gear options.
This is part of a broader strategy, initiated in 2019, to balance conservation efforts with the sustainability of the crab fishery.
Additionally, the Commission adopted a Final Order regarding the Winchester Water Control District, requiring compliance with fish passage laws at the Winchester Dam by 2030.
