The Fish and Wildlife Service is beginning to write a management plan for the 30,000 acre Columbia National Wildlife Refuge located in the arid Columbia Basin of south-central Washington State in both Grant and Adams Counties. 

The Refuge is an important stopover and wintering ground for migratory birds and waterfowl.  Hunting is allowed and the management plan will be considering if and how hunting opportunities will be expanded, developed or modified.  The Service is inviting comments about what the plan should contain. 

In addition, a public open house will be held June 16 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the City of Othello's Municipal Building (City Hall), City Council Chambers located at 500 East Main Street, Othello, WA 99344.  Written comments can be sent via email to mcriver@fws.gov  Additional information is available at http://www.fws.gov/mcriver or you may call 509-488-2668. 

If you hunt on this Refuge, it is especially important to be involved at the beginning of plan development to ensure that your interests are fully taken into consideration.