The Manitoba government celebrated Conservation Officers Recognition Day and recognized the dedicated members of the Manitoba Conservation Officer Service, whose work helps protect public safety, natural resources and wildlife across the province.

“On Conservation Officers Recognition Day, we thank Manitoba’s conservation officers for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to serving Manitobans,” said Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie. “Whether they are protecting wildlife resources, conducting search and rescue operations, responding to emergencies, supporting wildfire response efforts or engaging with communities across the province, conservation officers are an integral part of preserving Manitoba’s natural heritage for future generations.”

As part of this year’s recognition activities, the Manitoba government held a ceremony today at the Legislative Building to welcome 12 new conservation officers. The officers recently completed training through the Western Conservation Law Enforcement Academy and will begin serving in communities throughout Manitoba.

The ceremony also recognized outstanding service and achievement including recipients of the Shikar-Safari Club International Wildlife Officer of the Year Award and the Association of Midwest Fish and Game Law Enforcement Officers Officer of the Year Award.

“The Conservation Officer Service has a proud tradition of protecting Manitoba’s people, wildlife and natural resources,” said Bushie. “As we celebrate Conservation Officers Recognition Day, we proudly welcome the next generation of officers and thank all members of the service, past and present, for their invaluable contributions to Manitoba.”

The Manitoba government established Oct. 1 as Conservation Officers Recognition Day in 2019 to acknowledge the important contributions and sacrifices of conservation officers, the minister noted, adding that the day serves as a reminder of the risks officers face while carrying out their duties in often remote, challenging and unpredictable environments. Since 1966, six Manitoba conservation officers have lost their lives in the line of duty.

To learn more about the Manitoba Conservation Officer Service, visit gov.mb.ca.