About Us
Officers train with a new 27 foot patrol boat on Lake Monroe
DNR's Law Enforcement Division employs 214 conservation officers who serve the public and protect the natural Hoosier heritage of the state of Indiana. The division has its headquarters in Indianapolis and operates 10 law enforcement districts throughout the state. Founded in 1897, the Law Enforcement Division is the oldest state law enforcement agency, and one of the most diverse.
In addition to the division's duty of enforcing state laws, Indiana conservation officers are active in a variety of non law enforcement activities, such as outdoor education programs including hunter, boater and snowmobile and trapper education. River Rescue, Cave Rescue and Underwater Search and Recovery and K-9 Teams are specialty response units available statewide whenever needed.
Indiana Conservation Officer patrols the Ohio River near Evansville
Indiana conservation officers use an assortment of boats, snowmobiles and off road vehicles.Conservation officers are a unique resource often called upon to help during emergencies and natural disasters.
The Law Enforcement Division also has an Investigations Section. These investigations are primarily focused on exploited or commercialized wildlife. They use a variety of techniques including specialized surveillance and undercover operations.
Conservation officers use many tools to accomplish its mission. Wildlife decoys, as well as, computers, surveillance cameras and other electronic equipment are vital assets to the modern day conservation officer.
Officer and K-9 search a vehicle for illegal game
Officers receive specialty training in areas such as River Rescue, Advanced/Rescue SCUBA, firearms, emergency vehicle operation, alcohol breath test and defensive tactics to name a few.
TIP (Turn In a Poacher/Polluter) program , “WEAR IT INDIANA” and the Sportsman’s Benevolent Fund are other examples of positive and effective law enforcement tools that grow public awareness as they enlighten and inform sportsmen and other natural resource users.
Law Enforcement offices can be reached at our regional or district headquarters by phone or email during normal business hours.
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