A total of 1,283 wild animals and fish were illegally harvested in Utah in 2022, slightly higher than the number poached in 2021.

Several hunting seasons are in full swing, and Utah's general-season deer hunt — arguably the state's most popular hunt — starts Oct. 22. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources conservation officers are hard at work patrolling the state to protect wildlife and to make sure hunters are obeying the laws.

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources conservation officers have recently investigated several cases involving large, trophy-sized deer and elk that were killed illegally across the state.

Become a conservation officer

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 DWR 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 DWR conservation 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).
• Check to see if you meet the standards and qualifications to participate in the Peace Officer Standards and Training academy.

How to apply

The Utah DWR 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, DWR 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 DWR captains

If selected, you must then attend the State of Utah Peace Officers Standards and Training academy, a multi-week program based in Salt Lake City.

After graduating from POST, newly sworn officers-in-training are assigned to their wildlife district, where they complete a rigorous DWR field training program to develop the knowledge and skill needed to perform as a DWR 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.

In an effort to expand its law enforcement investigative methods, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources recently launched its first conservation officer drone team.

Turn in a poacher

Help us protect your wildlife, turn in a suspected wildlife violation.

If you witness an in-progress wildlife violation — or you're aware of a previously committed wildlife crime — please contact DWR conservation officers as soon as possible. Your four contact options are listed below in order of urgency:

1. Send a text to847411
2. Call the UTiP hotline at1-800-662-3337
3. Submit a tip through the DWR Law Enforcement app
4. Submit a tip online

1. Text UTiP

2. Call the UTiP hotline

3. Use the DWR Law Enforcement app

If the violation may not demand an immediate response, or if you're unwilling or unable to speak with UTiP hotline operators, you may submit a tip through the DWR Law Enforcement app, which is available as a free download for iOS (Apple) and Android devices. This reporting option will initiate a chat conversation with DWR Law Enforcement personnel. You may remain anonymous, if you wish, but we encourage you to provide your name and contact information to better assist the investigating officers.

4. Submit a tip online

Why should I care about reporting wildlife crimes?

Poachers are thieves. They steal resources and opportunities that you pay to enjoy. And in many instances, poachers waste wildlife, removing heads or claws and then leaving the rest of the animal to rot.

If you're an ethical hunter or angler, you care about wildlife and don't want to see it stolen or wasted. In recent years, dozens of high-profile poaching cases have been cracked with the help of people like you. You may also earn a reward for your efforts. Do your part to protect Utah's wildlife by reporting poachers immediately.