11.10 Funding Wildlife Management

Who pays for wildlife management in Washington?

You and your fellow hunters pay for most wildlife management activities in our state. The Department of Fish and Wildlife receives much of its money from the sale of hunting licenses and tags. License sales generally account for one-half of the money spent by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

In addition to money from the sale of hunting licenses, the Department of Fish and Wildlife receives money each year from the federal fund established by the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act (also known as the Pittman-Robertson Act). Firearms, ammunition, and certain archery products all are subject to a special tax, which is paid by the manufacturer at the time the product is made. Money from this tax is shared each year among the 50 states, and it is used for wildlife management activities.

Finally, the Department of Fish and Wildlife also receives some general fund money from the Washington State Legislature. Less than 15% of the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s revenue comes from the general fund.