.jpg)
Game wardens work for Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife. They are committed to conserving wildlife, fish, and other natural resources while ensuring public safety. They enforce laws and regulations concerning the protection of wildlife and inland fisheries, small motorized recreational vehicles, and other pertinent statutes. Additionally, game wardens act as investigators for recreational vehicle accidents and hunting-related shooting incidents, coordinate search and rescue teams, and gather data useful for managing wildlife resources.
Responsibilities
Game wardens must possess knowledge of hunting, fishing, trapping, and outdoor sports, be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, and enforce laws. They patrol designated areas to manage wildlife and recreation programs, issue warnings and citations, submit reports, serve warrants, and make arrests. They provide training, conduct search and rescue operations, and issue licenses and permits. Game wardens also engage with the public to deliver information about wildlife conservation regulations and gather and report data on wildlife populations and suspected destruction to habitat.
Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent required.
You must be at least 21 years old, or you can be 20 years old if you have completed an associate degree or 60 credit hours of postsecondary education.
Successful completion of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy’s ALERT examination is required.
You must also successfully complete the Maine Criminal Justice Academy’s Pre-Employment Physical Fitness Test within a year of submitting your application.
Climate Connections
Maine Game Wardens enforce laws that protect fish, wildlife, and natural resources, ensuring their sustainability in the face of climate change. By investigating violations such as poaching and habitat destruction, they help safeguard species that are vulnerable to environmental changes. Wardens also play a critical role in search and rescue operations, assist in disaster response, and educate the public on the importance of conservation and responsible outdoor practices. Their work helps preserve Maine’s ecosystems for future generations.