Career As a Game Warden

Game wardens protect wildlife and the environment.

If you are open to the challenge of protecting and preserving fish and wildlife and enjoy being outdoors in all types of weather, then you may want to consider a career as a fish and game warden. Game wardens protect wildlife by keeping animals out of harm's way and engaging in activities that preserve their environment. Game wardens work for the state or federal government in a law enforcement capacity.

Benefits

Game wardens help protect the environment by compiling biological information and reporting damage caused by incidents such as excessive wildlife feeding or grazing. They also protect wildlife and fish by apprehending individuals who engage in illegal hunting and fishing practices. In some cases they can educate people about wildlife issues by addressing schools and civic groups.

Geography

Game wardens typically patrol an assigned geographic territory to look for signs of trouble. Depending on the geography of their assigned area, they may patrol by car, boat, horseback or even airplane. In some cases they may face dangerous situations such as being attacked by a wild animal or coming in contact with armed criminals.

Significance

Game wardens have full authority to arrest those suspected of breaking fish and game laws. They carry weapons in case the use of force is required. They are typically employed by either the federal government or by an individual state, so they are considered to be state or federal law enforcement officers. They also have the authority to confiscate any equipment they believe is being used for illegal hunting and fishing activities.

Training

Education and training requirements for game wardens will vary depending on whether employment at the state or federal level is pursued. State game wardens usually receive training at a state police academy and may not need a college degree. Game wardens who wish to seek employment with the U.S. Department of Wildlife are required to have a bachelor's degree in biology or criminal justice.

Potential

Payscale.com indicates that the average starting salary for fish and game wardens is $35,652 as of 2010. Actual pay will vary based on factors such as location and employer. Experienced wardens can earn in excess of $50,000 per year. Since game wardens are state or federal employees, they will typically have access to an extensive fringe benefits package.

References

• Career Planner: Fish and Game Warden
• Degree Directory: Fish and Game Warden: Job Duties, Career Outlook, and Education Requirements