March 15, 2021: Conservation Officer Appreciation Day

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan considers the protection of its citizens, environment, and natural resources to be among its highest priorities; and,

 

WHEREAS, our state is fortunate to have the leadership and protection of conservation officers in the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Law Enforcement Division in these noble pursuits; and,

 

WHEREAS, the DNR Law Enforcement Division was created in 1887, making it Michigan's oldest statewide law enforcement agency; and,

 

WHEREAS, conservation officers successfully meet emerging challenges, accept new missions, and deliver premier customer service; and,

 

WHEREAS, conservation officers are motivated, highly trained, and fully commissioned state peace officers, working every day to protect our cultural and natural resources, ensure recreational safety, and safeguard citizens  in the communities they serve; and,

 

WHEREAS, the men and women who serve as conservation officers can be found in every corner of our state, serving with bravery, honor, and distinction in locations ranging from urban cities to the deep woods; and,

 

WHEREAS, this day marks  our state's appreciation for those who currently and previously served as conservation officers, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 15, 2021, as Conservation Officer Appreciation Day in Michigan.