The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking shellfish growers interested in serving on the Willapa Bay Oyster Reserve Advisory Board.

Established by the state legislature in 2001, the advisory board advises the department on issues related to oyster reserve management, growing operations and research in Willapa Bay.

The board meets twice a year at the WDFW Willapa Bay Field station in Nahcotta. All volunteer board positions are currently open on the six-member board. Membership of the board is comprised of shellfish growers who participate in reserve sales as well as those who do not.

The two-year term runs July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2016. All qualified candidates may apply, including former and current members of the board. Responses are due to WDFW by June 6. Advisory appointments will be announced by July 1.

Candidates should submit a brief letter stating relevant experience, reasons they wish to serve as a board member and contact information (telephone number, mailing address and email address). Mail to Bruce Kauffman, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 190, Ocean Park, WA 98640.