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A fish and game warden protects wildlife and their habitat. They do this by patrolling a designated area that is being protected, ensure rules and regulations are enforced, and handle any violations that may occur. They would also investigate any evidence of wrongdoing to the environment and wildlife in the area.
Watch a video to learn what a fish and game warden does:
How to Become a Fish and Game Warden
Most employers look for a bachelor’s degree and a degree in the life sciences can be helpful. Since you are working to protect the environment, some employers may favor a candidate with military or police experience. Being in shape can be important, as you would be expected to patrol and area regularly and would need to be physically fit to be able to handle physically demanding situations if they arise.
Job Description of a Fish and Game Warden
A fish and game warden may use various means to patrol an area and the method to patrol depends significantly on the type of environment and how large of an area it is. For example, they may use boats if patrolling protected land and wildlife located within waterways and lakes. They may also use horses, airplanes, cars or trucks, all-terrain vehicles, and even patrol by foot.
Fish and game wardens may also investigate incidences that occur, such as hunting accidents, incidents that impact the wildlife and environment, and trespassing. They would also issue citations to individuals that violate the rules.
Fish and Game Warden Career Video Transcript
Protecting wildlife and wild places is the work of conservation officers. Also called fish and game wardens, they enforce laws and regulations that support fish and animal populations. Capable of using almost every type of transportation, they patrol their assigned areas by car, boat, airplane, horse, or on foot.
Fish and game wardens investigate hunting accidents and fish or game violations, and may compile evidence to testify in court. They issue hunting licenses and help to make the hunting season as safe and humane as possible. As officers, they also carry weapons and are trained by the local, state, or federal agency that employs them.
A conservation officer may collect or review biological data to assess the health of their area, such as the condition of wildlife in a park, the health of native plants, or the impact of wildlife on crops. They may also conduct inspections or rescues. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in a related field. A background in the life sciences and interests in fishing, bird watching, or hunting, are helpful. Excellent physical condition is required. If you love wildlife and being outdoors, this may be an ideal career.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Fish and Game Wardens.
National Center for O*NET Development. 33-3031.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
