Fish and Game Warden

What a Fish and Game Warden Does

Hunting and fishing regulations are in place to ensure the sustainability of the local wildlife. Without these measures, people may devastate the wildlife population, thereby destroying an entire ecosystem. Fish and game wardens are the law enforcement officers responsible for patrolling hunting and fishing grounds to ensure that the people there are adhering to local wildlife laws. They have the authority to warn, cite, or arrest those who are suspected of breaking these laws, such as those who are suspected of catching too many fish or hunting out of season. They also ensure that those who do participate in these activities are doing so safely and with the necessary licenses. Some fish and game wardens have additional duties, such as inspecting wildlife crop damage and giving advice to the owners on how to remedy the current damage and prevent future damage. Some also have the responsibility of investigating commercial fishing operations to ensure that those are operating within legal limitations. Occasionally, fish and game wardens are called upon to perform rescue operations for those lost in the wilderness or to save wild animals caught in perilous situations.

How to Become a Fish and Game Warden

An in-depth knowledge of law enforcement tactics and wildlife laws are essential for the fish and game warden profession. While an associate degree in a related field like criminal justice is the official minimum education standard for wardens in most states, students should consider earning a bachelor's degree to boost their chances of career success. Earning a four-year bachelor's degree in criminal justice will show employers that the applicant has met a standard for education and professional skills, thereby making it more likely for them to be successful in the field. Students should take classes in environmental law, wildlife law, law enforcement techniques, and other related topics. During the undergraduate program, students should also participate in a relevant internship in order to gain hands-on professional skills. Most fish and game wardens also must undergo a training regime once hired. These typically last three months to a year, depending on the warden's particular skill level and employer.

Career Outlook for Fish and Game Wardens

An increased interest in environmental law and regulation, which includes the regulation of wildlife, has reinvigorated the demand for fish and game wardens. As the population grows and more people are hunting and fishing, it becomes more essential than ever before to maintain a good balance of the hunters and the hunted. The need for fish and game wardens will skyrocket in an effort to ensure that fragile ecosystems are kept intact. In fact, employment opportunities for these wardens will increase eight percent during the 2008-18 decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This will make the 2008 employment numbers for fish and game wardens jump from 8,300 to 9,000 by 2018, adding about 700 new jobs into the market. This number does not include all of the positions that will open up due to retirement or career change. In addition to a thriving job climate, future fish and game wardens can also look forward to financial rewards. The median annual salary for these wardens was $48,930 in May 2008, the latest information available from the BLS. However, the top ten percent of fish and game wardens earned more than $81,710 per year. The actual salary that an individual will earn depends on his or her particular employer.