With the goal of strengthening conservation efforts in Alabama, the ADCNR Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Law Enforcement Section has announced that it will pursue national accreditation. The division hopes to achieve accreditation through the North American Wildlife Law Enforcement Accreditation Program.

“By achieving NAWLEA accreditation, WFF's Law Enforcement Division has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence,” said ADCNR (Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “The accreditation process not only enhances the agency's capabilities, but also contributes to the advancement of the profession as a whole.”

Col. Michael Weathers, head of WFF's law enforcement division, pointed out the impact that would have if the certification were granted.

“Our officers and staff are committed to advancing the conservation law enforcement profession,” Weathers said. “NAWLEA's mission mirrors our own goals in that it focuses on developing professional standards. The formal mechanism they provide allows us to better evaluate our law enforcement efforts.”

“We recognize the importance of public trust in natural resources law enforcement,” he said. “This accreditation will serve as a testament to our dedication to transparency, professionalism and the highest standards of service. We look forward to the opportunities and challenges that come with achieving NAWLEA accreditation.”

“Our commitment to NAWLEA's mission and goals reflects our ongoing dedication to the communities and natural resources we are honored to serve.”

WFF’s law enforcement division goals are aligned with those of NAWLEA and include:

• Improving the effectiveness and efficiency of service delivery by natural resource law enforcement agencies
• Promote cooperation and coordination between all components of the criminal justice system and the communities they serve.
• Ensuring proper training for natural resource law enforcement personnel
• Promoting public confidence in natural resource law enforcement
• Improving the professionalism of law enforcement agencies involved in the NAWLEA process

Austin Shipley is a staff writer for Yellow Hammer News.