Kathy Ann LaBonte

The committee meeting covered several topics, including a review of striped bass measurement processes and the discussion of current licensing rules and fishing activities for ice smelt. New business included the election of committee officers and a review of the committee's advisory duties regarding marine species. Members discussed reports of clam shells found near Odiorne Point and reviewed details for an upcoming derelict fishing gear cleanup event, including historical participation data and gear recycling procedures.

The Commission addressed several action items, including the acceptance of multiple donations for the Small Gifts & Donations Account, the Canine Account, and various fisheries programs. Budget approvals were secured for the Wildlife Division's dedicated accounts and the Fisheries Habitat Account, with a specific expenditure authorized to conserve land along the West Branch River. Informational reports covered financial status, proposed revisions to trout pond rules, and planned license fee increases. The meeting also included legislative updates, committee reports regarding the Commission Handbook and hatchery construction, and a review of outreach efforts, including the Discover Wild NH Day event and various wildlife and marine division programs.

The Commission discussed several action and information items, including accepting donations for the Search & Rescue and Fish & Game funds. Significant time was spent deliberating proposed increases to the Wildlife Habitat Fee and Fisheries Habitat Fee, with a motion passing to increase the Wildlife Habitat Fee to $10. The Commission reviewed budget overviews for the Wildlife Habitat, Game Management, and Fisheries Habitat accounts. Other topics included a project to conserve land along the West Branch Warner River, adjustments to falconry rules, and a detailed review of various legislative bills, including HB-1603 and HB-1140. Committee reports were provided on legislative matters, sustainability, strategic planning, public engagement, and governance. Updates were also given by the Inland Fisheries, Wildlife, Marine, Law Enforcement, and Public Affairs divisions regarding their recent activities and operational plans.

The Commission accepted multiple donations for the Search and Rescue account and various departmental programs. Presentations were delivered concerning the Owl Brook Hunter Education Center, a statewide turkey banding initiative, and the implementation of a new online portal for fishing tournament applications. Legislative matters were reviewed, including a formal vote to support specific bills regarding wildlife record accuracy and landowner permissions. The Seacoast Report covered ASMFC winter meeting updates on striped bass definitions and American lobster management, alongside recent commercial seafood landings data. Additionally, the Public Engagement and Education committee recommended recipients for the 2025 Commission Award of Excellence, and a comprehensive update was provided on departmental activities across the Fisheries, Wildlife, Marine, and Law Enforcement divisions.

The 2025 Revision of the New Hampshire Wildlife Action Plan provides a blueprint for conserving the state's wildlife and habitats. This strategic document encompasses updated lists of Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) for both wildlife and plants, defines key habitat types, and includes a comprehensive assessment of threats, along with proposed conservation actions. The revision process emphasizes robust partner and public engagement to guide ongoing efforts in wildlife and habitat protection and ensures continued eligibility for State Wildlife Grants.