Watch CBS News

Meet Oakland County's New Conservation Officer

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) - Several communities throughout Michigan are gaining new conservation officers from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Oakland County's Conservation Officer is Thomas Peterson.

Thomas Peterson
Thomas Peterson, Oakland County conservation officer (Credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources)

"Serving the community has always been important to me," said Peterson. "I became a conservation officer so I can serve my community and protect natural resources. I discovered a passion for natural resources early in my adolescence and I want to ensure there will be a safe, quality place for people to enjoy in the future, just as I have."

Since graduating in December the officers have traveled the state completing their field training program and gaining diverse experience as probationary officers.

The new conservation officers received their permanent county assignments prior to graduating from the academy. After graduation, conservation officers must complete three phases of probationary training before they move into their permanent county assignments.

While their primary mission is to enforce fish, game and natural resource protection laws, conservation officers serve a unique role as certified peace officers with authority to enforce all of Michigan's criminal laws. Because of their specialized training and equipment, conservation officers often are first responders to situations involving medical emergencies, missing persons and public safety threats.

To see the full list, visit here.

© 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.