The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - Division of Enforcement starts its 10th Conservation Officer Academy today, Feb. 8, at Camp Ripley. Eighteen conservation officer candidates (COCs) will participate in the 12-week training program about state natural resource laws and how to enforce them.

Scott Fitzgerald, former North Branch Police officer, is among the 18 candidates.

ìAs a conservation officer, you enforce fish and game laws to ensure that hunters and anglers abide by the restrictions of the season and their limits, have proper licenses, and use the proper equipment,î said DNR Chief Conservation Officer, Col. Mike Hamm. ìYou investigate complaints, arrest violators, prepare briefs, and present evidence in court. Some investigations are completed in a day while others require extensive detective work and modern technology.î

The recruits will learn everything from using a laptop computer to collecting evidence to arresting and interviewing suspects. The idea is to allow the COCs to become familiar with the variety of challenges confronting officers who protect the stateís natural resources. Upon successful completion of the academy, the COCs will spend 16 additional weeks learning from, and being evaluated by, veteran conservation officers before beginning their first assignment.

ìThe training will be both physically and mentally challenging to ensure theyíre prepared for the normal activities encountered by our nearly 200 current conservation officers,î Hamm said.