Internal alert or reminder goes here!
2026 WADE Conference registration information
The 2026 WADE Conference Registration and Lodging form is now available for SCC staff required to attend. Before you complete the form, please be sure you have written permission from your supervisor to attend. This will need to be uploaded (in PDF format) on your registration form.
March 6, 2026
Update Your Outlook Settings to Default Meetings to 50 Minutes
To help us build healthier schedules and reduce back-to-back meeting fatigue, please take a moment to update your Outlook settings so that all meetings default to 50 minutes. This small change gives everyone a buffer between calls and helps improve focus and productivity.
March 5, 2026
Funding in Proposed State Budgets for Conservation Commission
The House and Senate each released proposed operating budgets last weekend. These budgets join the Governor’s proposed budget, creating three distinct and competing plans for funding our state’s government including the Conservation Commission. There are significant differences between these plans which are summarized below.
February 27, 2026
AI Updates: Hello, Copilot Chat — goodbye, ChatGPT
Starting March 1, 2026, Copilot Chat will be available to replace ChatGPT and other pilot AI tools.
February 26, 2026
SCC Restructuring Presentation
Why restructure? SCC is committed to delivering excellent services to the conservation districts and other partners we serve. Restructuring allows for: • Better alignment with service delivery within core business units • Enhanced role clarity for staff and external partners • Clearer accountability to improve efficiency and ownership across the organization • Stronger support for supervisors; staff growth, development, and training
February 2, 2026
Call for Agenda Items: March 19 Commission Meeting
It’s time to begin preparing for the March 19 commission meeting. This message is to reach out and see if you have any potential agenda items you would like to submit for consideration.
January 31, 2026
DRS Q&A webinar announcement!
The Department of Retirement Systems’ Education & Outreach team will provide the following live Q&A webinar sessions. They will include a short presentation followed by up to 25 minutes of question & answer time.
January 20, 2026
Winter Safety Reminder – Walking Surfaces And Ice Hazards
As winter weather continues, please stay alert for changing conditions around the building and surrounding areas, including parking lots, sidewalks, ramps, and building entrances.
January 20, 2026
Updated '27-29 DP Development Process
While we may be in the midst of the 2026 Legislative Session, it’s time to begin our agency budget development process for the 2027-2029 Biennium.
January 15, 2026
Public Records Request Notification
The Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) has received a public records request from the Seattle Times for certain information about members of the state’s retirement systems, including retirees and non-retirees, for a one-year time period.
January 12, 2026
Strength Finders Resources
I hope your Strengths experience gave you some fresh insight into yourselves and each other—and that you found it not just helpful, but fun too!
January 5, 2026
Governor Ferguson Releases Proposed Supplemental Operating Budget
Today, Governor Ferguson released his proposed supplemental budget for the current biennium. The supplemental budget will affect fiscal year 2027 and has implications that carry forward for future biennia. We've been actively monitoring the state's revenue forecasts and were not surprised by the proposal we saw today.
January 5, 2026
Upcoming Webinars from the Employee Assistance Program
January often brings an invitation to reflect on where we’ve been and how we want to move forward. Instead of focusing on resolutions or big changes, the Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) encourages a more intentional approach—one that centers clarity, alignment, and care. As you settle into the new year, the EAP is here to support you in creating routines and practices that feel sustainable and meaningful.
December 30, 2025
Public Records Request - Liberum and KR Creative
Everyone will need to search your records for any documents related to this request. Please email Karla and let her know if you have any information. There is a checklist of all staff, and you will check off everyone to indicate whether you have or don’t have any information.
December 23, 2025
Action needed: SCC Connects follow-up survey due by Jan. 5, 2026
Thank you for attending the December 2025 SCC Connects in-person staff meeting. The Planning Team would like to know about your experience so that we can better meet staff needs at our next gathering.
December 23, 2025
IT Service Alert: 15-character password policy
New computer password policy from Ecology single sign-on and Microsoft services goes into effect for all NEW passwords at 6:00 p.m. on Nov. 19, 2025. (The password you use when you log into your work computer.)
December 15, 2025
StrengthFinders Assessment Due Dec. 9
We are on our countdown to SCC Connects. I wanted to provide more details about the pre-work required for our StrengthsFinder training.
December 8, 2025
Bill Blake Elected for the Western Washington Commissioner Seat
We are pleased to announce Bill Blake as the new Western Washington representative on the Washington State Conservation Commission. Congratulations Bill Blake!
December 4, 2025
SFF report to legislature published
Biennial SFF report published!
December 4, 2025
Guidance on Commenting on Other Agency Plans
We know information and requests come at us from all directions. One area that feels particularly energetic lately is requests from other agencies for SCC to review and/or comment on their draft plans, guidelines, or other documents. Many of you engage in interagency committees or workgroups that may result in a request for your review, or you manage programs that are aligned with a respective request.
November 26, 2025
Updated Travel Information
As many of you are gearing up for our December Commission meeting, there have been issues with the agency’s travel card not automatically loading when purchasing airline tickets on Atmos. Get more travel tips here.
November 5, 2025
Crucial Conversation Training
Earlier this week, we announced a new training requirement for everyone, Crucial Conversations. This training helps us form a shared understanding of how to have effective communication about difficult subjects and will help us meet the expectations outlined in our Respectful Workplace Policy. Here is some more information for you about this training, arranged as an FAQ for your easy reference.
October 30, 2025
Migrating File shares to the Azure cloud in November.
The Ecology cloud team will migrate the WSCC file share to the Azure cloud on 11/6 beginning at 5pm. The file share will not be available during the migration.
October 28, 2025
Out-of-office reply guidance
I wanted to provide you with the out-of-office reply guidance developed by the Leadership Team to help equip SCC staff with standardized replies while you’re out of the office.
October 22, 2025
Employee Engagement Survey open
The 2025 Employee Engagement Survey is open now until October 31st.The survey is confidential and takes only about 10 minutes to complete.
October 15, 2025
Commission Tour Highlights Stevens County Partnerships
On September 19, Commissioners, SCC staff, and partners toured two Stevens County sites showcasing strong local partnerships and voluntary conservation in action. At Hagen Cattle & Hay Ranch, the group discussed grazing and manure management practices that support productive cattle operations and improve soil and water health. At Vetter Farm, jointly managed by the Stevens County Conservation District and WSU Extension, the tour highlighted efforts to connect producers, share ideas, and test new conservation approaches.
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October 10, 2025
Retirement Reporting 101 & Employer Reporting Application (ERA)
DRS Employer Support Services continues to offer several online trainings for Retirement Reporting 101 and the Employer Reporting Application (ERA). If you are new to retirement reporting or haven’t had a chance to attend one of these classes, please register now.
October 10, 2025
Ecology publishes Climate Resilience Strategy Progress Report
Check out the progress that's been made (including mention of SCC programs) in this 1-year progress report for Washington's Climate Resilience Strategy.
October 8, 2025
Climate Resources Roundup Webinar, October 16
Taking stock of available resources for understanding and responding to climate risks in Washington and the Northwest.
October 8, 2025
SmartHealth $125 wellness incentive deadline approaching
Don’t miss your chance to qualify for the SmartHealth $125 wellness incentive. The deadline is quickly approaching.
October 7, 2025
Health Care Authority PEBB fairs & Dept. of Retirement Systems
During open enrollment (October 27-November 24, 2025), you can learn more about your health plan and other insurance options by attending a benefits fair. PEBB and SEBB insurance carriers are attending to answer your questions and provide information about benefits.
October 7, 2025
Required FY26 IT Security Awareness Training is available now
Are you ready for Ecology's annual IT Security Awareness Training? This year, training is assigned in October to coincide with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. As with previous years, all IT Security Awareness training must be completed by June 30 of the following year.
October 7, 2025
Updated Travel Presentation
Check it out! The SCC Travel Tips PowerPoint has been updated with new guidance on booking flights through Atmos for Business.
September 29, 2025
New Network Access System Launching October 31
On October 31, SCC’s VPN will transition from F5 to Netskope, streamlining access to shared drives and folders.
September 29, 2025
DRS National Retirement Security Month Webinars
This October, the DRS Education & Outreach team is celebrating National Retirement Security Month by hosting four webinars to help you achieve your retirement goals.
September 26, 2025
Introducing the Climate Impacts Group “Our Climate Future” Webinar Series
The Climate Impacts Group (CIG) is beginning a new webinar series, titled “Our Climate Future.” This series will build on 30 years of the organization’s research, data, tools, and impact, to inspire new ways to stay connected and envision a just and resilient world where people and nature thrive in a changing climate.
August 20, 2025
WA State Employee Assistance Program: August & September Resources
As we transition into late summer, August and September offer the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and realign. These months bring timely observances like Black Business Month, National Wellness Month, and Civility Month, and soon, National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September. Together, they invite us to check in with ourselves, mentally, physically, and emotionally. Whether you’re savoring the slower pace of summer or preparing for the energy of a new season, this season is full of opportunities to deepen your well-being and strengthen your sense of connection.
August 11, 2025
Biennial Report Form Open for Programs
Program managers are invited to complete the biennial report form by August 29 to capture key accomplishments from the 2024 fiscal year.
July 28, 2025
VPN and Calendar Sharing Requirements
All staff are now required to use the BIG-IP Edge Client VPN and share their work calendars to support secure access and effective collaboration. Read more and get the resources inside this post.
July 23, 2025
Required trainings due by June 30
A friendly reminder to everyone about the two required trainings all staff need to complete by June 30th.
June 4, 2025
DRS webinar announcement!
The Department of Retirement Systems’ Education & Outreach team has updated the webinar schedule for April - June, 2025. To view the schedule and sign up for a live DRS Zoom webinar, select DRS Webinars. If you’re unable to attend a live webinar, these webinar video recordings are available on-demand.
March 31, 2025
SCC Record Index now available online
The SCC public record index is now available on our website. If anyone asks for this resource you can find it on our public records request page.
March 13, 2025
Stay Comfortable at Your Workstation – Ergonomics Tips
As we wrap up the month, we want to highlight an important topic—Ergonomics. A well-set-up workstation can help prevent fatigue, discomfort, and long-term injuries. Even small adjustments can make a bi difference in how you feel throughout the day. Get more tips and tricks!
February 27, 2025
Changes to Microsoft Teams message deletion settings
The automatic deletion setting for messages in Microsoft Teams will be suspended for six months. Users will need to delete messages manually, but messages will remain discoverable for e-discovery purposes.
February 18, 2025
SmartHealth: A gateway to a healthier you in 2025
In 2025, SmartHealth is better than ever. Together with WebMD, we're committed to prioritizing your well-being and helping you thrive.
January 14, 2025
‘Ripple Effect’ campaign encourages stewardship of Washington’s waterways
The new 'Ripple Effect' campaign aims to inspire stewardship of the state’s waterways through resources, tools, and statewide outreach. Launching March 1, 2025, the campaign encourages action to protect riparian areas and support wildlife, water quality, and conservation efforts.
January 14, 2025
Gov. Ferguson's Budget Priorities
Yesterday, incoming Governor Ferguson shared his budget priorities and approach to the state’s budget deficit. It is too early to know how this will impact our agency. Governor Ferguson takes office next week.
January 10, 2025
DRS webinar announcement!
Are you new to PERS and have a plan choice to make? Or, maybe you’re in PERS Plan 2 and have the option to transfer to Plan 3 during the January transfer window? If so, I invite you to attend a live webinar about your choice:
January 9, 2025
Increase in mileage rate for 2025
OFM has increased the state mileage rate to $.70 for POV effective January 1, 2025. Please note that the current agency requirements for travel due to the state travel freeze as well as our agency policy regarding the use of POV are still in effect. Let Ashley know if you have any questions!
January 8, 2025
Public Records Request by The Seattle Times
Through the state’s Public Records Act, The Seattle Times has requested certain information about all state retirement system members for the dates July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. The notice below includes a list of information DRS will release on March 5, 2025.
January 7, 2025
ICSEW 2024 Professional Development Conference Summary
The ICSEW 2024 Professional Development Conference was held October 8 and 9 virtually, followed by two in-person events in Tacoma and Spokane on October 10. Hundreds of state employees gathered online to listen to inspiring speakers, participate in breakout sessions, and support local artists who shared their music.
November 7, 2024
Executive Director Feedback Form
James Thompson has given a year of service to the Washington Conservation Commission in the role of executive director. Commission members would like to provide the opportunity to all of you who have worked with James to share feedback we can use during his annual review that includes your perspectives.
November 7, 2024
Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Limited Purpose FSA, and Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
FSAs allow you to set aside pretax money from your paycheck to pay for out-of-pocket health care costs. DCAP allows you to set aside pretax money from your paycheck to pay for qualifying childcare or elder care expenses. If you are participating in the FSA (formerly known as Medical FSA), Limited Purpose FSA, or DCAP for 2025, you must enroll during annual open enrollment even if you are not changing your contribution amount.
November 6, 2024
SmartHealth $125 wellness incentive deadline approaching
Don’t miss your chance to qualify for the SmartHealth $125 wellness incentive. The deadline is quickly approaching.
November 6, 2024
EAP Resources: Preparing Your Mindset as Election Day Approaches
Election Day is just around the corner as we move into November, and emotions may run high. At the EAP, we recognize that political seasons can bring an intense mix of stress, hope, and sometimes conflict and a need for balance amidst high-volume information and polarized conversations.
October 31, 2024
Notice to General Government State Employees – Public Records Request
On April 12, 2024, the Office of Financial Management (OFM) received a public records request from Quy Lam asking for information about all state employees. We have obtained a non-commercial purpose declaration, and we expect to have the records ready to be released by November 15, 2024.
October 29, 2024
RPPP Guidelines Review
Preliminary draft of RPPP guideline updates in case anyone would like to review or comment: https://sccwagov.box.com/s/zocf4sz1wz127qpazzy5l11bz4ujavk0. (Cleaner version will be in a secondary review after CD workgroup)
October 28, 2024
Climate Resilience Strategy rollout
FYI - The recording (on TVW) of the Climate Resilience Strategy rollout in case anyone who couldn’t make it wants to hear the messages shared!https://tvw.org/video/climate-resilience-strategy-celebration-2024101129/
October 18, 2024
Ecology/State Parks Co-Location Update for Oct. 17
Our project team continues to stay dedicated to our commitment of sending bi-weekly updates on our Ecology/State Parks Co-Location work in our Lacey building, and we have several updates to share with you. Here's the latest of what's happening with the Southwest Region Office (SWRO) and other impacted areas:
October 17, 2024
SCC is hiring! Seeking a VSP Coordinator
The VSP Coordinator will oversee the program’s implementation, management, and policy development, along with budget oversight, and supervision of the VSP Specialist.
September 27, 2024
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month!
For more than 20 years, October has been designated as Cybersecurity Awareness Month to bring awareness to the importance of cybersecurity for government organizations, private businesses and the public.
September 24, 2024
New Rule on the Accessibility of Web Content
There are new rules for the accessibility of web content. Get more information here.
September 24, 2024
Updated OFM Per Diem Effective October 1, 2024
OFM has updated the per diem rates as of October 1, 2024.
September 24, 2024
Upcoming SFF Webinar on Climate-Smart Ag
SFF will host a webinar on Priorities, Challenges, and Opportunities for Climate-Smart Agriculture in Washington.
September 4, 2024
Annual report and decision package feedback
Please provide any feedback on the draft 2024 Annual Report and the 2025 decision package info sheets by Sept. 11, 2024!
August 28, 2024
Ag Forestry Seminar for Paul & Allisa!
Letting you all know that at Paul’s and my first AgForestry Seminar for the 24-25 “school year,” we are inviting alumni and friends of AgForestry to a presentation!
August 12, 2024
2024 Annual Report for the Washington Soil Health Initiative
For anyone who is interested, just wanted to share that the 2024 Annual Report for the Washington Soil Health Initiative has been published.
August 4, 2024
Programmatic Comms Survey
The comms team has developed a survey to gather information about your programs’ communications needs, so that we can decide how to best serve them.
July 26, 2024
Data Collection for SCC-Related Work
This data collection is just the beginning of our journey toward new systems. As we move forward, ISG and I will hold meetings to address questions and provide further clarity on the ongoing work.
July 3, 2024
CRM Advanced Facilitation Training July 23-24
Link to bulletin update about upcoming CRM training with dates and information.
June 27, 2024
GOIA Trainings Available!
Read full post for available training dates and more information. Please share with your colleagues and any others interested. Trainings are open to all state, federal, tribal, city, county, and non-profit employees.
June 24, 2024
Updated Employee Travel Policy
Read the updated employee travel policy posted Jan 11 2023.
June 19, 2024
Regional Managers Services Shift Finalized
Map attached dated May 15, 2024.
May 15, 2024
EAP newsletter: Holiday Support and Personal Well-Being
Holiday Support and Personal Well-Being: the holiday season is a time of celebration, but it can also bring unique challenges. Managing these seasonal stressors is essential to starting the new year with health and balance. Prioritizing your well-being now helps you build resilience, maintain optimism, and set the foundation for a fulfilling and hopeful year ahead.
DRS Benefit Summit announcement!
Join us virtually on Monday, November 4th, 2024 from 3:15pm-6pm* and let’s Talk About Your Financial Future when retirement is still a long ways off.
We are excited to launch our new Executive Equity Learning Series!
The Office of Equity will host webinars supporting Washington State Agency Leadership, PEAR Teams, and other DEI Practitioners.
PEBB annual open enrollment begins today
The Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program’s annual open enrollment begins Oct. 28 and ends Nov. 25. Open enrollment is a time when you can make changes to your health plans and enrollment.
September: National Suicide Prevention Month
In addition to the back-to-school resources we featured in August, during September we take the opportunity to highlight the critical importance of mental health awareness, especially as it relates to suicide prevention. National Suicide Prevention Month serves as a vital reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, and it's essential to foster environments where open conversations about mental well-being are encouraged. To support our community during this time, we have curated a selection of resources designed to educate, support, and provide hope to those who may be struggling, as well as their loved ones. Whether it's learning to recognize the signs, knowing how to offer support, or finding the right professional help, these resources are here to remind everyone that they are not alone and that help is available.
Call for Agenda Items for July Meeting
The next commission meeting will be held on July 18 in Vancouver, WA. If there are items that you would like to bring forward to the commission members for action or for information, please send me the following by end of day on June 21
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