March 2024 – Warden's Watch

From humble beginnings fishing the tranquil lakes of Ohio to her current position as Chief of Law Enforcement for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division, Kandy Klosterman is no stranger to blazing trails. As the state’s pioneering female wildlife investigator, she spearheaded numerous high-profile cases, earning multiple accolades along the way – including the prestigious Guy Bradley Award for lifetime contributions to wildlife law enforcement. With a career spanning nearly three decades, her commitment to safeguarding Ohio’s natural resources, mentoring the next generation of officers, and championing the inclusion of women in wildlife conservation sets the standard for excellence. We can’t wait to see what she does next!

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Here’s what we discuss:

Accepted Chief of Law Enforcement position in June 2023
Grew up fishing and hunting with her grandfather in Ohio
Mentors are essential
“You’re not born with a shotgun or fishing rod in your hand.”
Worked mowing grass on ODNR property
“I want to be a wildlife officer!”
Volunteering led to a part-time position
Only woman in the Academy in 1998
Mentoring the next generation of officers
All staff take part in educating new cadets
1920s saw the first female wildlife officer in Ohio
15 female officers in 120 years, but more all the time
Early career involved several areas of the state
Wildlife investigator for 21 years
Adventures in undercover work
Ohio’s Women Officers of Wildlife group
Female Wildlife Officers in OH wore men’s uniforms until the mid-90s
Ohio DNR organization and command structure
Nearly three-decade career
Statewide working groups: “I don’t have to know everything.”
Leveraging drone capabilities
Plans to expand Search & Rescue
Accreditation program for outfitters and guides
A fraudulent interstate outfitter case
Encouraging the next generation of female WOs
“Someone taught you, now you need to teach them.”
Working with cadets brings you back to your roots

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Art & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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Sgt. Sheila Paquette can only be described as a trailblazer for women in conservation law enforcement. During her nearly 29-year career with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, she has excelled in accident reconstruction and forensic investigation, is a multi-disciplinary trainer, boat handling instructor and Master Captain, was the agency’s first Detective – and did we mention she’s also active with both NAWEOA and the North American Game Warden Museum, an avid photographer, passionately community-minded, and a mom? On this International Women’s Day, join us for a conversation with an officer who not only challenges stereotypes, but leaves no boundary untouched.