A marine mammal veterinarian from Sequim who is helping to shape federal killer whale protection has been named the ninth and final member of the state Fish and Wildlife Commission.
Dr. Pete Schroeder is the first commissioner from the North Olympic Peninsula in a decade.
Gov. Gary Locke appointed Schroeder to a standard six-year term. He replaces former chair Russ Cahill.
“Their mission is right up my alley, basically,” Schroeder said Friday night during a phone interview from his home office overlooking Dungeness Bay.
The commission sets policy for the state Department of Fish and Wildlife and develops statewide fishing and hunting rules.
Schroeder was one of 31 applicants for the position and was nominated by former Commissioner John McGlenn.
He becomes the first commissioner from the North Olympic Peninsula since Dr. James M. Walton ended his service 10½ years ago, according to Diane Prigge, the governor’s special assistant for boards and commissions.
“I was thrilled,” Schroeder said of his appointment.