OLYMPIA - The state Department of Fish and Wildlife is accepting letters of interest through Sept. 30 for membership on the department's Master Hunter Advisory Group.
     The group, which represents master hunters statewide, advises department officials on issues and opportunities affecting master hunters and the master hunter program, according to a department announcement.
     The director is scheduled to make formal appointments by March 2009.
     Five volunteer positions are open on the 15-member group. Members must be certified master hunters and will serve three-year terms, say department officials.
     At least two members must live within each of the department's six administrative regions.
     Okanogan County is in region two; Ferry County is in region one.
     Advisory group members communicate with other master hunters, solicit their comments, share their views with other advisory group members and the department, and keep the department informed of meeting outcomes and progress on the master hunter program, according to the announcement.
     Applicants “must tell us why they want to be a member, what qualifies them to be a member, and how they can help achieve the advisory group's vision," said Mike Kuttel, master hunter policy lead for the department.
     Applicants selected for an interview will be required to attend the group’s Aug. 23 meeting at 9 a.m. at the Quality Inn, Ellensburg.
     The group meets at least four times a year. Members are reimbursed for travel.
     More information is available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/masterhunter/ or from Kuttel, (360) 902-8413.
     Letters of interest may be addressed to Mike Kuttel, kuttempk@dfw.wa.gov, or Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Enforcement Program, Attention Mike Kuttel, Hunter Education Division; 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia 98501-1091.