DNR offers accelerated conservation officer training academy for first time

ROSCOMMON, MI – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is looking for new recruits to protect the state’s natural resources and environment.

The DNR is accepting applications to its 10th conservation officer academy, which will begin this spring and conclude in the fall.

New this year is a shortened training for recruits who meet hiring requirements and are already certified or certifiable by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards. The accelerated training will focus on conservation officer-specific laws and functions while the regular academy includes basic law enforcement training and training specific to conservation officers.

The academy will be based at the DNR’s Ralph A. MacMullan Center in Roscommon with some training at Camp Grayling in Gaylord and at the Michigan State Police Training Academy in Dimondale. Virtual training will also be used to reduce the spread of COVID-19. During the academy, recruits are state employees; they receive biweekly paychecks, benefits and retirement.

Previous law enforcement, fishing and hunting experience are not required to become a conservation officer, nor is a college education.

“Our instructors are the best at what they do,” said F/Lt. Jason Wicklund, DNR Law Enforcement Division. “We want to see applicants succeed and will provide recruits everything they need to be successful.”

The DNR Law Enforcement Division protects Michigan’s natural resources and the environment, and the health and safety of the public through law enforcement and education.

To learn more about the conservation officer hiring process and requirements, visit Michigan.gov/ConservationOfficers or contact a local recruiter.