Law Enforcement
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, maintaining relationships with neighboring landowners, maintaining refuge boundaries and participating in public events related to refuge issues.
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Refuge Law Enforcement Objectives
Law enforcement is an integral part of managing the National Wildlife Refuge System. Refuge law enforcement officers are responsible for upholding federal laws and regulations that protect natural resources, the public, and employees. These are our objectives.
•To protect refuge visitors and employees from disturbance or harm by others.
•To assist visitors in understanding refuge laws, regulations, and the reasons for them.
•To enhance the management and protection of fish and wildlife resources on refuges.
•To ensure the legally prescribed, equitable use of fish and wildlife resources on refuges.
•To obtain compliance with laws and regulations necessary for the proper administration, management, and protection of the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Learn about law enforcement on National Wildlife Refuges across the country.
To Report a Violation:
Please notify a federal wildlife officer to report wildlife violations on the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex:
- Sacramento NWR office: (530) 934-2801 Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
- State of California Hotline for Poaching and Pollution (includes wildlife violations after hours or to report violations on state/private property) 1-888-DFG-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258)
- You may also report violations to 1-844-FWS-TIPS (397-8477) or FWS_TIPS@FWS.GOV
*Be prepared to provide incident details including date, time, and location
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