On Mon, 4 Jan 1999, Martha Jordan wrote:

> Hello,
> All of you who are wanting or think you need a permit to visit the WDFW
> lands here is the latest word.
> You will NOT need a permit of any kind until April 1. Yes, this is
> directly from WDFW Olympia office as of this morning. This is because the
> new license year will be from April 1 to March 31 as of 1999. So, there is
> a grace period for the vehicle use permit and such. You will still need a
> hunt or fish license if you do these activities and can get an interim one
> at license dealers.

Martha--

Well, it wouldn't be the first time somone gave out bad info
at WDFW...BUT, which info is bad? i.e., my info tells me that
YOU MUST HAVE A VEHICLE PERMIT in place Jan 1 if you are
visiting a wildlife area..

But, regardless of whose information is more accurate, here's
what I know--

The price for the Conservation license includes the decal
and it's good for the entire year, so there's no economy in
waiting 'til April 1 to get it..i.e., it's the same price.
WHAT is unclear, is who long it will be good for...it should
be Jan 1, 1999 through March 31, 2000.. if one waits to get
it, you risk a ticket on your vehicle, not to mention the
lines at the agency outlets.. My friend Jim went to Licensing
to buy his permit/decal and the line was very long..so he's
going back this week...the decals are available, as I got
mine when I bought the hunt/fish license..

Since there is some confusion, and there's no economy on
waiting to buy the licence, it seems best to do that right
away.

I'm sticking my decal on now...

Tom