By 1808Delaware, ODNR
The newest class of 11 cadets, which includes one Delaware resident, have begun their experience at the Ohio Wildlife Officer Training Academy run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
This is the 31st group of cadets to have this experience.
“Keeping Ohioans safe and protecting our wildlife resources are two of our top priorities,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “These cadets, once trained, will increase our ability to serve Ohioans and will create a positive experience for Ohio’s sportsmen. We are happy to have them on board with the Division of Wildlife.”
The 11 cadets were hired from a pool of nearly 800 applicants and will complete more than six months of training before becoming Ohio wildlife officers. They will graduate in March 2023 and be assigned to individual counties, with one officer remaining at-large.
The current group of cadets includes Nicholas J. Oliver of Delaware.
Ohio wildlife officers have statewide authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways, and property. As state law enforcement officers, they contribute to public safety in their local areas and Ohio’s great outdoors. They also speak to hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife programs, perform fish and wildlife surveys, and provide technical advice and instruction about wildlife management issues, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor related recreation.
Cadets who require state law enforcement certification will complete approximately 21 weeks of Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training and all cadets will receive 8-10 additional weeks of specialized training from the Division of Wildlife. Training includes law enforcement procedures and agency policies as well as wildlife and fisheries management, communications skills, ATV and vehicle operations, as well as advanced firearms and self-defense topics.
For information on the Division of Wildlife and its programs visit wildohio.gov. To learn more about Ohio wildlife officers, go to ohiodnr.gov/careers and see the Becoming an Ohio Wildlife Officer tab.
