NCJ Number
214201
Journal
Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Managment Volume: 29 Issue: 1 Dated: 2006 Pages: 6-18
Date Published
2006
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study attempted to identify and describe factors related to job satisfaction among conservation officers or game wardens in Kentucky.
Abstract
On the whole, conservation officers, also known as game wardens represented in this study are dedicated law enforcement officers who love their jobs for many reasons. Results are consistent with prior research that conservation officers appreciate the freedom and diversity/variety their job provides. They gain satisfaction from working outdoors and the interactions they have with people they meet while performing their job. Due to limitations of the study sample, it is recommended that future research examine job satisfaction among female conservation officers. Identifying the need in examining crime and law enforcement in rural areas, particularly recreational areas/settings on public and private lands and waters, this study set out to identify and describe factors that influence job satisfaction among conservation officers in Kentucky. All 29 conservation officers surveyed were male and ranged in age from 28 to 63 with between 2 and 33 years of experience. In an increasingly urbanized and bureaucratic society, conservation officers represent a traditional rural occupation. A conservation officer’s job remains important for the preservation of our society’s wildlife resources. The results of this study should be of particular interest to State wildlife agencies, as well as those interested in rural and specialized law enforcement. References