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History in the Making, First NAWLEA Onsite Assessment Conducted

The North American Wildlife Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (NAWLEA) has taken a significant step toward setting a new benchmark in conservation law enforcement. Following an in-depth assessment conducted on January 14-15, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Division of Law Enforcement became the first agency in the United States to undergo NAWLEA's accreditation assessment. This milestone highlights the FWC’s dedication to professional excellence in conserving Florida’s natural resources.


A Rigorous Review Process


The assessment process included a thorough evaluation of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement’s practices and policies. During the two-day review, assessors conducted interviews and observations at a static display featuring FWC law enforcement officers and their specialized equipment. These evaluations are part of NAWLEA’s mission to develop and uphold standards for conservation law enforcement professionalism and effectiveness.

By engaging with NAWLEA’s approximately 70 rigorous standards, the FWC Division of Law Enforcement has demonstrated its commitment to excellence in serving both the state’s wildlife and its residents. “This is an honor that our accreditation team and entire division has worked hard to achieve,” said Col. Brian Smith, Director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. “The professional excellence exhibited during this process is not just something that happens during two days of a review process; this is achieved through a daily commitment to the highest of standards in conservation law enforcement.”


Advancing the Conservation Law Enforcement Profession





Accreditation through NAWLEA not only benefits individual agencies but also strengthens the entire conservation law enforcement profession. By adhering to these rigorous standards, agencies like the FWC Division of Law Enforcement demonstrate their commitment to best practices and accountability, creating a ripple effect that enhances natural resource protection across North America.


Looking Ahead



The FWC Division of Law Enforcement’s participation in this historic accreditation process sets a strong example for other agencies seeking to elevate their standards and effectiveness. Currently, five other state wildlife law enforcement agencies are undergoing self-assessment through the NALWLEA program, and we anticipate more agencies joining in 2025. NALWLEA’s commitment to establishing and upholding rigorous standards ensures the continued advancement of natural resources law enforcement, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.

 

FWC is scheduled to have its official report presented and reviewed by the NALWLEA Board in March of this year.

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