March 3, 2020 - The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has released the 2020 Warden Stamp, a collectible decal that many diehard hunters and anglers collect and display on vehicles and other items in order to show support for California’s wildlife officers. This year’s stamp, which features a dorado, a marine fish also known as mahi-mahi or dolphinfish, can be purchased online or at CDFW offices for just $5.
The Warden Stamp Program was initiated in 2010 to address the need for better equipment and training for the state’s wildlife officers and to provide funding for special law enforcement programs. All funds raised from the sales of the stamp go to purchase necessary equipment for wildlife officers and to support CDFW’s K-9 program.
“Those who purchase the Warden Stamp – hunters, anglers and non-consumptive users – appreciate and want to conserve our state’s amazing natural resources,” said David Bess, CDFW Deputy Director and Chief of the Law Enforcement Division. “Purchase of the stamp demonstrates public support of wildlife officers and allows them to do their jobs more safely and efficiently.”
Approximately 465 wildlife officers patrol and protect 159,000 square miles of California’s natural habitat and 200 miles out to sea. Though their primary function is to enforce California’s Fish and Game Code, they may be called upon to enforce any of California’s laws.
Wildlife officers patrol on foot, on horseback, by plane, boats and in a variety of vehicles. They investigate reports of violations, collect and preserve evidence, write reports and testify in court.
Wildlife officers are also expected to promote and coordinate hunter education programs, collect and report information on the conditions of fish and wildlife and their habitat and represent CDFW at local schools, meetings of hunting and fishing clubs and other community events.
To view an image of the 2020 Warden Stamp, visit wildlife.ca.gov/warden-stamp. To purchase the stamp, visit wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/online-sales.
Source: CDFW
