Tribal Conservation Law Enforcement
Approximately 300 certified Conservation Law Enforcement Officers (CLEO) are employed in Indian Country and are primarily responsible for the enforcement of natural resource regulations within their respective areas. However, in many Tribal departments, officers also regulate other non-resource related violations such as traffic, drug, and domestic violence crimes; and they often support search and rescue operations or other community policing situations where necessary. Theoretically, each officer is responsible for the enforcement of regulations in an approximate area of 187,333 acres.
Funding to support CLEO programs varies among the many Tribes. The majority of conservation law enforcement funding is allocated to cover employee salaries, benefits, and routine operations. Money for officer equipment and training may sometimes be limited or nonexistent.
Funding for CLEO training is critical for officers to maintain their certifications and protect them and others from everchanging risks encountered daily.
NAFWS supports CLEOs on a national level with direct expenses associated with virtual and in-person law enforcement training for officers to successfully meet their mandated training requirements and enhancing professional development, tactical and safety skills.
