Wolf Management: Washington’s Department of Fish and Wildlife authorized “incremental” lethal removal of wolves in the Couse pack after repeated livestock attacks, with officials refusing to say how many wolves will be killed and saying nonlethal options won’t work. Utility Costs: Puget Sound Energy’s proposed rate hikes drew a packed public hearing in Lacey, with residents warning affordability impacts as the utility seeks big electricity and gas increases. Salmon Passage: Seattle’s dams blocking Canadian salmon could change, as a multilateral effort moves toward restoring access to the upper Skagit River. Air Quality: With the statewide burn ban expiring, officials stress that fires can still be active and remind residents not to burn garbage—illegal and harmful to air quality. Coastal Flood Prep: El Niño plus king tides could bring severe coastal flooding, with communities like Stanwood and Taholah taking steps now. Food Waste: Washington marks Food Waste Prevention Week with statewide events aimed at keeping food out of landfills. Weekend Travel: Major WSDOT closures on I-5, I-405, SR 520 and SR 99 are set to trigger severe Puget Sound traffic congestion.