Gov. Inslee announces partial re-opening of recreational activities

OLYMPIA, Wash.-- In a press conference on Monday, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced that Washingtonians will soon be allowed to participate in some outdoor recreation activities.

As of Tuesday, May 5, certain restrictions on outdoor recreation will be lifted with appropriate safety precautions. That will allow residents to take part in fishing, hunting, golf, and day use facilities at state parks, state public lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources, and at state Fish and Wildlife areas.

“Outdoor recreation is one of the best things we can do to promote physical, mental and emotional well-being for Washingtonians during a time of great stress and isolation," Inslee said. "And springtime in our state is Washington at its best and people want to be out enjoying outdoor activities in a safe and responsible way."

Inslee said if there's a sharp rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the days or weeks following the re-opening of recreational activities, restrictions will be reinstated.

At this time, there is no published plan to resume public gatherings and events, team sports, or camping, among other activities.