SO YOU WANT TO BE A GAME WARDEN

By Jen Shugart, Outreach Program

Specialist Texas Game Wardens

Photos courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

For a law enforcement agency with roots in the 1890s, Texas Game Wardens seem to never go out of style. While other organizations struggle with recruitment, retention, and enthusiasm to join the ranks of conservation enforcement holds steady.

It could be due to recent Hollywood backed projects like the reality series “Lone Star Law” and crime drama “Joe Pickett.” Maybe it’s the result of a dedicated recruitment team traveling the state discussing the incredible opportunity that awaits future wardens in the outdoors and in their community. Or perhaps, it’s the wardens themselves. More than 550 Texas Game Wardens interact with hunters, anglers, school kids and recreators 365 days a year.

On cadet applications and in job interviews, those daily interactions are usually the most referenced reason for pursuing a path to become a Texas Game Warden. A warden’s visit to the elementary school, the hunter’s education course they taught, the baseball team they coached or their yearly kid fishing event at the local pond are all examples of day-to-day engagement that continues to entice countless people into the coveted role of “my local game warden.”

So, how does the average citizen become a game warden? Thankfully, the roads leading to the title are as varied as wardens themselves. There is no right geographic area or school or background. What counts most is the applicant’s interest in community building, passion for conservation and appreciation for everything outdoors.

A few requirements must be confirmed before an application can be submitted to the Texas Game Warden Training Center: ensuring proof of US citizenship, a valid driver’s license and a bachelor’s degree.

Before applying, consider the commitment the job requires. Texas Game Wardens are considered among the most pres- tigous conservation enforcement in the nation; their training reflects that integrity.

Nestled in the rolling ranch hills of Central Texas, the Game Warden Training Center (GWTC) is a sophisticated facility equipped for intense training with all the amenities of home. Dorm rooms, cafeteria and modern classrooms provide ‘roundthe-clock support for the 33 weeks (1,200 hours) of training required to become a probationary game warden. To better understand life as a cadet or the GWTC expectations, the recruiting team continually uploads exciting and informative content to their Instagram page.

When someone is still on the fence about life as a game warden, there are many helpful experiences interested candidates may utilize to add to their knowledge of the job duties or support their standing in the interview process.

Candidates are always welcome to reach out to the wardens in their community. Requesting time for coffee or a ride along with a warden to better understand the duties and common issues of Texas Game Wardens can help candidates decide if this is the appropriate career. Even better, local wardens often connect and assist local enthusiasts with internships and mentorships before the application process begins.

Volunteering and developing strong ties within your community is critical to a game warden’s role. The sooner candidates identify a need in their community through a non-profit, religious group or school and assist in their own unique way, then better suited they will be to take on the responsibilities of a Texas Game Warden.

Of all the guidance and tips you’ll hear on how to become a game warden, the most critical one is: go outside!

Not everyone has the means to hunt dove or white-tail during the season. Experience as an avid hunter or angler is not a necessary part of the job. What is necessary is an enthusiasm for the outdoors that results in a lifelong learning adventure with the natural world and commitment to protect it.

Visit tpwd.texas.gov/warden for details on requirements, the application process and additional opportunities. For questions, there is a link to “Contact a Recruiter” where applicants may email a recruiter directly.

Keeps animals healthy and hydrated with fresh, clean water all day

• Connects to a standard water hose

• Circulating water stays fresh and cool in the summer heat

• Can be attached to a timer and programmed to turn on throughout the day

• Overflow water can be used to water flower beds gamewasher.com blakejonesdesigns.com H

Our Hand Crafted Items have a classic, timeless quality. Traditional styling and construction with premium quality materials and components are the hallmark of Blake Jones designs.

All of our finished products are designed and assembled by hand at our South Texas facility.