Pennsylvania Game News - June 2015 - 16

Becoming a Deputy WCO
Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officers
are local representatives of the Game
Commission. Individuals selected for
these positions serve in a volunteer
capacity and perform their duties under
the supervision of a District Wildlife
Conservation Officer.
Deputies do not receive regular salary
or wages. They may receive compensation
at a Commission-approved per diem rate,
in lieu of wages and expenses, on certain
approved days. History has shown,
though, that, in the performance of their
duties, deputies spend far more money
than they make. Deputies are recruited

traditions I hold in high regard.
About the Job
Pennsylvania's deputy program is
rooted in tradition, and it's considered
to be the best in the country.
If you asked every deputy to give the
reasons he or she joined the ranks and
continued to serve, there would be as
many reasons as there are deputies.
For me, it is all about service;
service to the local WCO and service
to every officer with whom I work. It
also is about protecting our hunting
and trapping traditions.
After being commissioned as a
deputy, an individual works in concert
with his or her local conservation
officer.
That officer is your supervisor, but,
in reality, most likely you'll become
partners.
You will be a very important part
of the wildlife law-enforcement effort
within that officer's assigned district.
For me, I look at the deputy position
as one that helps make the efforts of
16

locally on an as-needed basis. Applicants
must be in good physical condition,
have a good knowledge of hunting,
trapping and other outdoor activities,
and be able to maintain a good working
relationship with fellow officers and the
public. Deputies should be prepared to
function in all phases of Commission
activities, including law enforcement,
hunter education and other educational
exhibits/programs, wildlife management
and land management.
For more information about the
qualifications needed and becoming
a deputy, write 2001 Elmerton Ave.,
Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797; or call 717787-4250.

my WCO successful.
A deputy becomes an integral part
not only of law enforcement, but of
agency programs, such as HunterTrapper Education.
In answering questions about wildlife and helping to educate hunters,
trappers and the general public on the
Game Commission's programs and
policies, deputies serve as local representatives of the Game Commission.
All of these activities are rewarding, because you know you are
making a difference. You'll learn,
too, that a deputy is looked upon
with respect by his or her community and neighbors.
There are some unique activities
that deputies get to experience, such
as handling a tranquilized bear or
delivering an injured bald eagle to a
wildlife rehabilitator.
However, not everything is guaranteed to be enjoyable; there are some
jobs that are arduous and potentially
dangerous, especially in the arena of
law enforcement.
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Pennsylvania Game News - June 2015

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