Conservation Officers
Helping Protect the Fish and Wildlife of Idaho

Conservation Officers work in Idaho's mountains and high deserts, on wild rivers and pristine lakes. They have the opportunity to travel through this beautiful country on snow machines, horses, jet boats and 4x4 vehicles. This is not an 8-5 job, but rather one that is flexible; one that allows you to adjust your schedule so you can make your child's soccer game. Conservation Officers work in country where most people only vacation. Yes, this is your office.

Want to make a difference? As a Conservation Officer you can. Idaho Conservation Officers are law enforcement officers who primarily enforce Idaho fish and wildlife law. As a Conservation Officer, you will attend the Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training Academy (POST) as do state troopers and deputy sheriffs. With POST training and additional IDFG field enforcement training under your belt, you will be set to protect and preserve Idaho's wildlife resources for those generations to come. Now that is a legacy that your great grandchildren will be proud of!

Do you like fur, fins, and feathers? We hope so, for Conservation Officers work closely with biologists to collect biological data for wildlife studies, conduct population studies, and trap, tag and transplant wildlife and work with landowners to resolve wildlife damage problems. Yes, Conservation Officers go "hands-on" with wildlife.

Want to Become an Idaho Conservation Officer?
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) is looking for individuals who are interested in making a difference both for the people of Idaho and the wildlife resources that make this state truly great. Are you one of those special people who are interested in becoming an Idaho Conservation Officer? If so, then we would like to visit with you.

Becoming an Idaho Conservation Officer
To be a competitive candidate, you will need to have a good knowledge of fish and wildlife management practices and be a great listener and communicator. Competitive candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Wildlife and /or Fisheries Management or closely related fields. You must also be able to relate to our customers, primarily anglers and hunters. To do this, you will need to have an interest and practical experience in fishing and hunting.

So, "where and when do I sign up for this life-changing opportunity" you ask? Check the IDFG Employment Opportunities section for current listings.


For more information on becoming a Conservation Officer, contact:
Clay Cummins
Assistant Chief Enforcement Bureau
Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game
(208) 334-3736
Email: ccummins@idfg.idaho.gov
Jon Heggen
Enforcement Chief
Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game
(208) 334-3736
Email: jheggen@idfg.idaho.gov
Also see: Idaho Division of Human Resources

Idaho Conservation Officers: Working for Idaho's Citizens and Wildlife Resources
Idaho Conservation Officer badge Idaho Conservation Officer checks elk hunter with pack string in back country Idaho State seal