Utah Division of Wildlife Resources conservation officer Devin Shirley upholds the law and protects wildlife in the remote areas of Utah County.
In the vast and rugged lands of Utah County, one man stands as the guardian of wildlife and enforcer of the law. Devin Shirley, a conservation officer with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, patrols the remote areas of the county, ensuring that fishing, hunting, and trapping laws are upheld. But his duties go beyond just protecting wildlife; he also responds to calls for assistance from other law enforcement agencies and tackles issues such as illegal narcotics and child endangerment. This article delves into a day in the life of Devin Shirley, shedding light on the challenges and responsibilities he faces in his role as a conservation officer.
Enforcing Wildlife Laws and Investigating Poaching
As a conservation officer, Shirley’s primary responsibility is to enforce fishing, hunting, and trapping laws in his district. He covers a vast area extending from Mt. Nebo to Diamond Fork Canyon, patrolling remote campgrounds and ensuring that individuals adhere to licensing requirements and catch limits. However, his role goes beyond just catching violators; Shirley also investigates cases of poaching, which includes not only illegal hunting but also any violations of hunting, fishing, and trapping restrictions. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources heavily relies on tips from the public to catch and prosecute poachers, as studies show that only 2% to 3% of big game poachers are caught and prosecuted in America.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement Agencies
While Shirley’s main focus is wildlife conservation, he often finds himself collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to address a wide range of issues. In a recent incident, Shirley was called to assist a U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer at a remote campsite above Diamond Fork Canyon. The campers had not only exceeded the legal time limit for their stay but were also using illegal narcotics with children present. Shirley worked alongside child protective services and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office to ensure the safety of the children and arrest the adults involved. This incident highlights the diverse nature of Shirley’s work and his ability to adapt to different situations.
Patrolling Blue Ribbon Fisheries and Conducting Boat Inspections
In addition to enforcing wildlife laws and responding to calls for assistance, Shirley also conducts routine patrols of designated blue ribbon fisheries in Utah. One such fishery is the lower Provo River, where Shirley often encounters anglers who gather to fish in the pristine waters. His role is to check fishing licenses, ensure anglers adhere to catch limits and size restrictions, and maintain a presence to deter potential violations. Shirley’s patrols also extend to Strawberry Reservoir, where he collaborates with conservation officer McKay Braley to conduct boat safety inspections, fishing-license checks, and enforce slot limit restrictions for cutthroat trout. Their efforts not only ensure compliance with regulations but also help protect the delicate ecosystem of the reservoir.
The Challenges of Remote Patrols and Limited Connectivity
Working in remote areas poses unique challenges for conservation officers like Shirley. The vastness of the territory, coupled with limited cell coverage and radio communication, requires officers to be self-reliant and resourceful. Shirley often finds himself switching between dispatch systems located in different counties and relies on snow machines during winter months to patrol frozen lakes. Despite these challenges, Shirley and his fellow game wardens, along with sheriff’s deputies and UHP troopers, maintain communication and assist each other in rural areas. Their dedication to protecting wildlife and enforcing the law is unwavering, even in the face of logistical obstacles.
Conclusion:
A day in the life of a Utah conservation officer is filled with diverse responsibilities, from enforcing wildlife laws and investigating poaching to responding to calls for assistance from other law enforcement agencies. Devin Shirley exemplifies the dedication and commitment required to protect Utah’s wildlife and natural resources. Through his patrols, inspections, and collaborations, Shirley ensures that individuals adhere to fishing, hunting, and trapping regulations, while also addressing broader issues such as illegal narcotics and child endangerment. His work is a testament to the importance of wildlife conservation and the tireless efforts of those who uphold the law.
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