Tag: Conservation Officer

Maine Operation Game Thief

Iron Skillet Seasonings

New Hampshire Operation Game Thief

Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania

North East Conservation Law Enforcement Chiefs Association

North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association

Here’s what we discuss:

Jessica explains the Manitoba Conservation Officer Service and how the agency has evolved over the years
Her role as Canadian Treasurer for the North American Game Warden Museum
The unique international location of the museum
Why the museum is a “pilgrimage” destination for game wardens
Starting as a seasonal conservation officer in Manitoba
How Manitoba still offers one of the few seasonal conservation officer programs in Canada
Growing up in Saskatchewan, calling Alberta home, and building a career in Manitoba
“I’m really lucky to get to go all those places and do that kind of stuff.”
Patrolling Manitoba’s remote northern wilderness
Fly-in caribou patrols and winter road enforcement
Common caribou hunting violations officers encounter
Working alongside northern Indigenous communities
Staying in remote bush camps and nurse barracks
Northern lights and untouched wilderness in Manitoba’s far north
Waking up to temperatures around -60C (-76F)!
Trucks refusing to start in extreme cold
“We were just not as prepared as we probably should have been for those temperatures.”
Using helicopters and float planes to reach remote areas
Conservation officers’ role in wildfire operations
Long fire assignments and burnout challenges
Supporting firefighters with logistics and supplies
Why Manitoba has experienced severe wildfire conditions
Human-caused fires versus lightning-caused fires
Deep-burning peat and bog fires that can survive winter
Being part of a game warden family
Why so many Manitoba conservation officers meet their spouses through the job
Managing a long-distance conservation officer relationship
Building a family while advancing both careers
Moving from field work into headquarters leadership roles
Life on Manitoba’s endless prairie road system
Jessica’s favorite game warden story: a winter walleye-poaching stakeout
Surveillance in -45C temperatures
Trying not to sound like a “bull in a china shop” while sneaking into position
Catching poachers who had been using the same spot for years
“They were shocked.”
How consistent enforcement led to voluntary compliance
The value of the North American Game Warden Museum
Learning from other law enforcement museums across North America
The surprising success and size of the Game Warden Museum
“It’s just such a great career, great lifestyle.”
“I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life other than being a game warden.”

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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174 Chris Egan – With Tayton Keezer

Posted on June 25, 2026June 25, 2026 by nhfishcop10

This episode brings us a fresh perspective as Conservation Law student Tayton Keezer steps behind the mic to interview retired New Hampshire CO Chris Egan. What starts as a simple student-to-officer conversation turns into a mix of mentorship, hard truths, and wild field stories, as Tayton connects what he’s learning in school to what the job really looks like in the field.

Our Sponsors:

Maine Operation Game Thief

Iron Skillet Seasonings

New Hampshire Operation Game Thief

Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania

North East Conservation Law Enforcement Chiefs Association

North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association

Here’s what we discuss:

Tayton stepping in as guest host and kicking things off with Chris
Chris’ early love for the outdoors and where it came from
Growing up around hunting, fishing, and camp culture with family
“I think it’s innate in every kid… it just needs to be fostered.”
Early influences from his dad and grandfather
Developing people skills at a young age by learning from others in the field
The importance of curiosity and asking questions
The best parts of the job, independence and building your own patrol days
“Patrolling woods and waters in an area that I love to be in”
Flexibility in choosing how to work, from boats to ATVs to foot patrol
Balancing independence with the structured nature of the role
Least favorite parts – including paperwork and detailed reporting
The reality that reports can become court evidence
The harder side of the job: fatalities, searches, and recoveries
“Those things don’t go away… they’re like a scar in your mind.”
How difficult calls can stay with you over time
Advice for young hunters and anglers entering the outdoors
Concerns about fewer kids spending time outside
“I just don’t understand how you could be bored outside.”
The mental health benefits of being outdoors
The joy and meaning the outdoors brought to Chris’ life
The balance of the job, rewarding one day and demanding the next
“Some days you shouldn’t be getting paid… other days you should be getting paid 10 times.”
Early interactions with wardens and how they shape perception of the role
Field techniques and tricks learned from other officers
A case involving illegal exotic animals inside a residence
Walking into what felt like a zoo inside someone’s home
A late-night Sasquatch call
“I had to respond to it without laughing.”
The risks of working in remote areas at night
A major poaching case involving a moose shot multiple times
The long investigation that went unsolved for years
A last-minute confession just before the statute of limitations expired
“I’m here to take responsibility for what I did.”
Accountability, personal change, and closure in that case
Chris’ approach to enforcement, firm but fair
The importance of maintaining relationships in small communities
How those relationships can impact safety and future cases
Conservation officers as a voice for wildlife
Encouragement for the next generation entering the field
Reflecting on a career built on passion, responsibility, and respect

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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162 Polar Bears & Patrols – With Jack Skillings

Posted on December 24, 2025December 24, 2025 by nhfishcop10

From patrolling on sea ice and responding to polar bear calls to managing wildlife in remote communities, Conservation Officer Jack Skillings takes us deep into the Canadian Arctic. Offering a rare glimpse into wildlife enforcement in the far north, Jack shares the rewards and realities of protecting the environment in some of the most isolated places on Earth.

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Here’s what we discuss:

Yukon’s Conservation Officer Services Branch and its role
Nunavut: Canada’s newest territory
Nunavut’s unique conservation structure
“There’s at least one conservation officer in every community.”
Patrolling without roads: snowmobiles, ATVs, boats, and planes
Polar bear management and why it’s handled by territories, not federal agencies
Community policing: “education over enforcement.”
Modern polar bear research using DNA instead of tags
Differences between Nunavut and Yukon: isolation vs. road access and teamwork
“The biggest difference in Yukon? Roads. Having a truck changes everything.”
Wildlife species and hunting traditions: caribou, muskox, seals, moose, sheep, and Arctic char
A polar bear deterrence gone wrong
Life in remote communities
“My favorite thing was just getting out on the land – patrolling, hunting, fishing.”

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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159 Justice for Dave: A Poacher’s Reckoning

Posted on November 11, 2025November 11, 2025 by nhfishcop10

In this powerful episode of Warden’s Watch, Pennsylvania Game Wardens Phil Bietsch & TJ Knash share the story of a career-defining poaching case tied to the tragic death of fellow officer David Grove on Veteran’s Day 2010. From building trust to securing confessions, this case is a masterclass in investigative work and emotional resilience. Listen now to hear how justice was served, and a legacy honored.

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Here’s what we discuss:

Phil and TJ were classmates at the Ross Leffler School of Conservation
Working as neighboring officers for four years, they’ve developed a strong investigative partnership
Emphasis on teamwork, rhythm in interviews, and rapport-building
Ryan Laumann is a known habitual game law offender
The case ties back to the tragic death of Game Warden Dave Grove in 2010, who was murdered by Chris Johnson during a poaching incident
Laumann was a passenger in the vehicle
Laumann “just went home.”
Johnson is now on death row
Equipment and training were improved
Laumann received a five-year license revocation
A tip from a former violator turned informant via Operation Game Thief
“I got away with it once, I can do it again.”
TJ took the lead
Keeping emotions in check
“Take your time.”
Officers conducted surveillance near Laumann’s residence
Multiple deer carcasses, gut piles, and antlers
Officers used rapport and strategic interviewing to gain Laumann’s trust
Jeff Baile’s interview and interrogation techniques were critical
Allowing the suspect to tell their version of the story
Laumann eventually confesses to killing multiple deer
From a good case to a great case
“Rapport is the foundation of everything.”
Laumann was charged with:
- 3 counts of illegal deer3 tagging violations
- 3 counts of scattering high-risk parts
- 1 over-the-bag-limit charge
Final penalties: 5-year hunting license revocation and $2,800 in fines

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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The Killing Krew Klan: Consequences

Posted on October 19, 2025October 19, 2025 by nhfishcop10

After the chilling revelations of Episode 156’s “Killing Krew Klan,” the question remained: how would the justice system respond? What consequences did these young trophy hunters face, and did the punishment fit the crime? In this episode, Investigator Patrick Kiely returns to walk us through the penalty phase of the case. Join us as we uncover the final chapter in one of Connecticut’s most disturbing wildlife crimes.

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Here’s what we discuss:

Convictions for wildlife crime aren’t always a slam dunk
The prosecutor in the case was an outdoorsman
Original roadside stop netted only a suspended sentence
Paring down up to 30 charges: what will stick?
Group pled guilty to jacklighting
$500 fines and three years’ probation
Banned from hunting for ten years
Conspiracy to sell wildlife and a probation violation
Getting support from judges and prosecutors
“Any time you serve a warrant … you’re opening a Pandora’s Box.”

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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155 Blake Patterson – North American Game Warden Museum

Posted on September 18, 2025September 18, 2025 by nhfishcop10

In this episode, we talk with Sgt. Blake Patterson, a Conservation Officer from Swan River, Manitoba, and President of the North American Game Warden Museum. Blake shares insights from his 17 years in the field and discusses the museum’s role in honoring game wardens and conservation officers across North America. Located at the International Peace Garden, the museum highlights the challenges of the profession and commemorates those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

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Here’s what we discuss:

The museum is a place every game warden should visit
Joined board in 2010
It’s elk hunting season in Manitoba!
A unique moose lottery fundraiser
Manitoba moose population decline
“I’ve seen those game warden shows. I know I’m done.”
Fun regional expressions
The Fallen Officer Memorial Service
Many museum exhibits feature seized items
Antique snow machines and hand-powered rail cars
Always looking for older tools of the trade, uniforms and paraphernalia
Potential interactive exhibit featuring fallen officer biographies
A night hunting helicopter chase

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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149 Deming Lindsley (Ret.) – New York

Posted on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 by nhfishcop10

In this episode, we delve into the long and distinguished career of Deming Lindsley, a retired Lieutenant from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Law Enforcement. Known for his expertise in Fish and Wildlife Law, Lindsley served as a primary instructor at both the State College and the Division’s Training Academy for decades. His engaging personality and sense of humor made him popular among both colleagues and students, and he continues to guest lecture today, leaving a lasting impact on countless officers – including our host!

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Here’s what we discuss:

Taught Fish & Wildlife Law at state university and Law Enforcement Training Academy.
Authored a charging reference guide for judges
No bail in New York
Patrolling with Dad
Growing up the game warden’s kid
Assigned first patrol in 1972
Promoted to Lieutenant in just four years
Teaching at Academy vs. College
The unintentional getaway driver
A news crew ride-along catches a poacher red-handed
“You don’t need a license to jack deer.”
Attempted bribe doesn’t go as planned
Little green lies
Even municipal employees can be tempted
“Don’t go down to the cellar.”
Keeping up with changing Fish & Wildlife laws
People want to talk about animals and laws
More lightning strikes than black bear attacks.
“I never had to go to work.”
Spearheaded one of the first Critical Incident Response teams
Sent to NYC on 9/11
Awards and plaques of thanks from all over
Tried to enforce the spirit of the law, rather than the letter of the law
Not all violators are criminals
Teaching generations of conservation law officers
A namesake K9
“Do the job. You’ll never regret it.”

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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147 Josiah Towne – New Hampshire

Posted on May 3, 2025May 3, 2025 by nhfishcop10

Fans of the hit Animal Planet show North Woods Law will instantly recognize CO Josiah Towne. In this episode, Josiah takes us behind the scenes into the dynamic world of a New Hampshire conservation officer, from daring mountain rescues to wild chases, along with some truly unforgettable moments. Join us for a look into the world of a real-life wildlife hero!

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Here’s what we discuss:

New Hampshire is hiring!
Appearing on North Woods Law
Every day is different; every season is different
Making a dent in the illegal elver trade
A riverside arrest gone awry
Improving handcuff techniques
Patrolling your hometown
Recognizing fresh perspectives
The Hawk Unit
A remarkable rescue operation
Any trail with the word ‘slide’ in the name…
The arduous rescue “was all worth it.”
Many visitors create increased requests for service
The local Scoutmaster

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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Support Suicide Prevention With Conservation Officer Rob McDermott

146 Run for Levi – With Rob McDermott

Posted on April 16, 2025May 1, 2025 by nhfishcop10

On Monday, April 21^st, New Hampshire CO Rob McDermott will run the Boston Marathon® in honor of his friend and colleague, Levi Frye. Partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Rob is raising funds to support AFSP’s prevention programs, advocacy, education, and survivor support. Next, we will hear from AFSP spokesman David O’Leary, who shares important information about suicide risk and offers suggestions on how to help a friend or loved one who may be struggling. Finally, Sgt. Matt Holmes reads the beautiful eulogy he wrote to honor Levi at his funeral service.

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Here’s what we discuss:

Turkey hunting and a fiddlehead harvest
Joined Fish & Game shortly after Levi
Roommates in the game warden house
Eric Fluette and the anonymous ring sizing kit
Levi was set to receive his second congressional medal
Partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Fundraising and training for the Boston Marathon®
Running with Levi: “we’d get lapped multiple times.”
Funds raised will help provide resources to others who have lost a loved one
Ways to offer support:
- Support Rob’s run directly through Give and Gain
- The New Hampshire Conservation Officers Relief Association
Up to 200 first responders die by suicide each year in the US
Follow the impulse to reach out
It’s okay to use the word ‘suicide.’
The most important thing you can do is listen
Changing our language: “You don’t ‘commit cancer’ or ‘commit high blood pressure’.”
Boston Marathon® and others allow charities to apply for bibs as fundraisers
Team AFSP at the marathon
1 in 5 Americans has a connection to a mental health issue
Find information and support here: AFSP
Sgt. Matt Holmes reads Levi’s eulogy: A man of commitment, and a man in green.

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Warden’s Watch logo & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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145 In Memory of Officer Levi Frye

Posted on April 11, 2025April 11, 2025 by nhfishcop10

This episode is dedicated to the life and legacy of New Hampshire Conservation Officer Levi Frye. Today, we honor Levi’s commitment to protecting our natural world through a lighthearted but insightful interview he gave before his passing, where he shares his passion for his work, the outdoors, and his lifelong dedication to physical fitness. As we reflect on his life, we will also hear a heartfelt poem written and read by Lt. Mark Ober at Levi’s funeral service.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the 988 Suicide Crisis Hotline.

Support the Frye family: https://nh-cora.org/donations/givewp-donation-fryefamily/

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