If you provide information that leads to the successful arrest and prosecution of a poacher, you may receive a reward for your efforts. Depending on the case, the DWR can issue various types of rewards:
Financial rewards
You could receive a reward of up to $1,000 if you share information that leads to the arrest and successful prosecution of a poacher. In some high-profile cases, various sportsmen's groups have contributed to the reward fund and increased the amount up to $5,000.
Reward permits
The Division sometimes offers reward permits when poached animals are once-in-a-lifetime species or big game animals on limited-entry areas. To receive one of these permits, you must be eligible to receive the permit, and you must provide information that leads to a poacher's arrest and successful prosecution for wanton destruction of wildlife. For more information on this opportunity, see DWR Administrative Rule R657-51.
To be eligible for either of the above rewards, you must be willing to provide detailed information and sometimes work closely with wildlife officers until the poacher is convicted. The DWR issues rewards on a limited case-by-case basis.
Protecting Utah's wildlife is a challenging, rewarding job
It's a career that combines cutting-edge law enforcement with lots of time in the outdoors. Utah's conservation officers pursue poachers and patrol trout fisheries. They check licenses and relocate threatening wildlife. They work long hours in remote areas, knowing that their efforts protect fish, wildlife and habitat across the state.
If you want a job that makes a difference — and you like to face new challenges each day — you should consider becoming a conservation officer.
A DNR conservation officer's patrol district covers approximately 1,800 square miles. That's larger than the entire state of Rhode Island.
Before you apply
If you're interested in becoming a Utah Department of Natural Resources law enforcement officer, you should take some important steps before submitting a résumé:
Work in a natural-resource field (in a seasonal or full-time position).
Get to know your local conservation officer. This is a great way to learn more about the job and the level of commitment it requires.
Be an ethical hunter, angler and outdoor enthusiast.
Obtain advanced education in wildlife science, biology, criminal justice or a related field (bachelor's degree strongly encouraged, but not required).
The Utah Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement periodically hires new conservation officers. To see if we are hiring — and to submit your application and résumé — visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/utah.
Rigorous testing and training
If you meet the initial screening requirements, DNR law enforcement personnel will interview you and begin an in-depth testing process, which includes:
A comprehensive background investigation
A physical test, including cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, strength, flexibility and swimming
A written aptitude test
Several scenario-based evaluations of candidate suitability
An panel interview with law enforcement supervisors
A polygraph exam
A psychological exam
A medical exam (following the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines)
A final interview with DNR Law Enforcement captains
After graduating from POST, newly sworn officers-in-training are assigned to their wildlife district, where they complete a rigorous field training program to develop the knowledge and skill needed to perform as a DNR conservation officer.
To learn more
For more information on becoming a conservation officer, call 801-538-4887.
For more information on becoming a conservation officer, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or submit a question in the box below. Note: If you submit a question in the box below, you must include your name and contact information if you'd like a response from our officers.
DNR law enforcement officers work to protect Utah's wildlife
The dispatches below are a fraction of our ongoing efforts to protect your wildlife. If you have information on illegal wildlife-related activities, please let us know. Our success depends on the help of ethical hunters, like yourself.
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