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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Return to Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Law Enforcement

Updated November 10, 2026

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service law enforcement officers have a wide variety of duties and responsibilities. Officers help visitors understand and obey wildlife protection laws. They work closely with state and local government offices to enforce federal, state and refuge hunting regulations that protect migratory birds and other game species from illegal take and preserve legitimate hunting opportunities. Some other duties include patrolling closed areas or wilderness areas, maintaining relationships with neighboring landowners, maintaining refuge boundaries and participating in public events related to refuge issues.

Reporting Suspicious Activities or Violations of the Law

Please provide the following information: what happened, where it happened, who was involved (including descriptions/names of persons involved, vehicle information, names of other witnesses) and when it happened.

  • In case of an emergency, call 911
  • Law enforcement issues should be referred to the refuge manager via email at ricelake@fws.gov 
  • You may also report observed or suspected violations to:
    • The Federal Wildlife Officer by text at 612-409-4025
    • The National Wildlife Refuge TIPs Line at 1-844-397-8477 or fws_tips@fws.gov
    • The State of Minnesota’s TIP hotline at 1-800-652-9093
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