Law Enforcement
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service law enforcement officers have a wide variety of duties and responsibilities. Officers help visitors understand and obey wildlife protection laws. They work closely with state and local government offices to enforce federal, state and refuge hunting regulations that protect migratory birds and other game species from illegal take and preserve legitimate hunting opportunities. Some other duties include maintaining relationships with neighboring landowners, maintaining refuge boundaries and participating in public events related to refuge issues.
Law enforcement is an essential component to sound resource management. Visitors to Great River National Wildlife Refuge can expect to see Federal Wildlife Officers regularly patrolling refuge lands to provide visitor and resource protection. Our officers routinely use trucks, ATVs, boats and foot patrol to access and monitor all areas within the refuge. Officers also regularly assist Missouri Conservation Agents in other resource protection activities.
Help protect your natural resources!
In an emergency call 911.
Law enforcement issues should be referred to the refuge manager at 573-847-2333 ext 2
To report violations:
- Call or email the National Wildlife Refuge TIPs Line at 1-844-FWS-TIPS (397-8477) or fws_tips@fws.gov
- Call the State of Missouri’s TIP hotline at 1-800-392-1111
- For violations that are not in progress or for general law enforcement questions contact the local Federal Wildlife Officer at 573-847-2333.
Please provide the following information: what happened, where it happened, who was involved (including descriptions/names of person involved, vehicle information, names of other witnesses) and when it happened.
Remember that you are the best protector of our resources. Be a good steward yourself and report violators!