Here was the response I got from ODFW:

Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding the fee increase that took effect on January 1, 2010.



Since the last recreational fee increase in 2004, the cost of managing Oregon’s fish and wildlife has increased significantly. Like every business and household, we have seen the cost of fuel, equipment, supplies, insurance and other necessary operating expenses go up. Despite our efforts to control costs, we were faced with a difficult choice – either increase fees or make budget cuts that would significantly affect fishing and hunting opportunities.



Early in 2008, we discussed the options with hunters, anglers, sports groups, industry representatives and elected officials at more than a dozen public meetings around Oregon. They told us not to cut programs and, in fact, they told us to do more to improve fishing and hunting in Oregon. The increase in recreational and commercial fees will help do that.



More than 80-percent of the additional revenue from the fee increase was needed to keep hatcheries open, to avoid cutting back on Oregon State Police enforcement of fish and wildlife laws, and to maintain current fishing and hunting opportunities. The fee increase also helps pay for raising and stocking more trout, habitat improvement projects to benefit deer, elk, fish and other wildlife, and the hiring of more OSP troopers to enforce fish and wildlife laws. And, as part of the fee increase package, we reduced the cost for resident and non-resident youth to go fishing and hunting.



We recognize that there will be some resistance to higher fees and that some individuals may decide not to purchase a license this year. However, the fee increase was necessary to continue to provide quality fishing and hunting opportunities and to manage and protect Oregon’s fish and wildlife.



Sincerely,



Curtis E. Melcher, Deputy Director

Fish & Wildlife Programs

Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife