October 1, 2019
Manitoba Proclaims Today Conservation Officers Recognition Day
– – –ster Welcomes New Class of Officers
The Manitoba government has proclaimed Oct. 1 as Conservation Officer Day, in appreciation for the hard work and vital role these officers play in the protection of wildlife and fisheries resources and the safety of citizens across the province, Sustainable Development Minister Rochelle Squires announced today.
“Manitoba is world-class destination for outdoor adventure showcasing an incredible array of wildlife and landscapes in every corner of our province,” said Squires. “Conservation officers play an important role in ensuring the sustainably of our wildlife and ecosystems. We are proud to proclaim this day in their honour and we welcome a new class of graduates later this fall to continue the hard work of their fellow officers.”
The Manitoba Conservation Officers Recognition Day Act calls for Oct. 1 to be known throughout the province as Manitoba Conservation Officers Recognition Day. The act makes note of the selfless work of officers around the province and pays tribute to the dangers they face in their daily work. Since 1966, six officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. They are often on the front lines of enforcement activities such as addressing poaching and night hunting, and are called upon to protect the public from dangerous interactions with wildlife.
In November 2019, a new class of recruits will graduate and another eight conservation officers will join the ranks, ready to serve anywhere in Manitoba. Conservation officers’ duties include wildlife management, public education and enforcement.
“The Manitoba Wildlife Federation would like to congratulate Sustainable Development on this recent announcement of eight new conservation officers for the province of Manitoba,” said Chris Heald, executive director, MWF. “This influx of officers is greatly needed and is a course of action the Manitoba Wildlife Federation has been advocating for many years. These new officers will help the existing teams ensure safe and ethical hunting practices and sustainable fish and game populations for all Manitobans.”
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