MDWFP graduates 15 conservation officers

Fifteen newly sworn conservation officers will be patrolling areas of assignment across Mississippi this ufall. On Oct. 27, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks held a graduation ceremony honoring its 15 new conservation officers at Roosevelt State Park near Morton.

These officers have been assigned to counties stretching from the Mississippi Delta to the Gulf Coast, protecting and serving Mississippi residents and ensuring Mississippi’s hunting, fishing, and outdoor heritage is protected for generations to come.

WMA waterfowl applications available

Throughout the state, habitat and hunting areas are being prepared for the waterfowl season. Many Wildlife Management Areas offer great waterfowl hunting opportunities that are open to the public. Several of these areas offer waterfowl hunting through draw permit only. Applications for the first of five drawings are being accepted through Nov. 13 for the following WMAs: Charlie Capps, Howard Miller, Indianola, Mahannah, Muscadine and Pearl River (youth only). Each consecutive round of application periods will begin the day after the previous round has closed.

To learn about other opportunities such as “stand-by” hunting on draw only WMAs, please see individual area regulations. WMA rules and regulations can be found at www.mdwfp.com.

Waterfowl stamps support conservation

Purchasing state and federal duck stamps are one of the easiest ways for anyone to participate in wildlife and habitat conservation. Duck stamps are required for waterfowl hunters 16 and older, but whether you are a hunter, birder, or if you simply want to help conserve our natural resources, you can contribute by purchasing a duck stamp.

Riecke named Fisheries Biologist of the Year

MDWFP Fisheries Biologist Dennis Riecke was recently named Fisheries Biologist of the Year by the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Riecke was presented the award at the association’s 69th annual meeting in Baton Rouge.

Riecke serves as the Fisheries Bureau’s Environmental Coordinator, representing MDWFP on the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality permit board. Other Fisheries Bureau programs that he coordinates include technical guidance, commercial fisheries, and community fishing assistance. He is also an expert in issues related to public water access, aquatic nuisance species, and instream flow. Additionally, he is also highly involved in drafting and revising fisheries regulations and laws.

“This award is a well-deserved tribute to the value and contribution of Dennis’s work for the fisheries resources in Mississippi,” said Larry Pugh, Fisheries Bureau Director. “Dennis’ experience and knowledge are invaluable assets to MDWFP.”

SEAFWA is comprised of fish and wildlife agencies from 15 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.