STATEMENT FROM NATURAL RESOURCES AND NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT MINISTER SCOTT FIELDING - Media Release March 24, 2022

On behalf of the Manitoba government, I would like to officially welcome the province’s new chief conservation officer along with 10 new conservation officers with the Manitoba Conservation Officer Service.

Earl Simmons was recently appointed as chief conservation officer. Beginning his career as an officer in 1986, Simmons brings with him a wealth of experience serving in a number of communities across Manitoba, including The Pas, Lynn Lake, Swan River and Lac du Bonnet.

As well, 10 new conservation officers have recently completed their training and joined the conservation officer service.

As recruits over the past year, these officers have undergone rigorous training along with gaining critical practical experiences and skills while mentoring with experienced conservation officers during training assignments. This training involves a wide variety of duties, including fisheries investigations, night hunting patrols, trapping inspections and park enforcement, in all corners of our province.

Serving Manitobans and protecting the province’s shared natural resources is an increasingly challenging undertaking.

I am confident these experiences have provided a solid foundation for our new conservation officers to perform their duties at a high level.

Congratulations to our new chief and our new conservation officers, and on behalf of the Manitoba government, I wish each of you the very best as you embark on your new careers.