Enforcement

Conservation Officers (CO's) are the field personnel of Environment Yukon. They administer and enforce a broad range of statutes and regulations that protect and manage the Yukons' fish, wildlife, parks and environment. Conservation Officers are stationed in most Yukon communities and patrol vast areas of the Yukon by boat, aircraft, snowmobile and vehicle.

As peace officers serving in remote areas, they receive significant training in a many areas including law enforcement, human relations, wilderness travel , bear safety and environmental investigations. They conduct numerous inspections throughout the year focusing on hunters, anglers, wilderness tourism operators and commercial businesses that impact the environment. They conduct investigations into reported or detected violations, prepare case files and when necessary, initiate court actions. All officers have a minimum of a college diploma in Renewable Resource Management, and have attended law enforcement training academies.

Conservation Officers rely heavily on the public to act as "eyes and ears" for illegal activity within the Yukon and to report matters that seem suspicious. The 24-hour Turn In Poachers/Polluters line can receive calls and relay information to conservation officers about illegal activity.

Enforcement activities are also carried out by these organizations:

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is responsible for salmon harvesting and the special Salmon Catch Card required in addition to a territorial fishing license to permit anglers to catch salmon. (You can find information about the Salmon Catch Card on the Fishing page or where you buy your license.)

Parks Canada officers patrol national parks, provide interpretation, oversee park use and visitor impacts, ensure compliance with regulations and assist travellers as required.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is responsible for enforcing federal and territorial legislation within the territory.