Conservation Enforcement banner image Conservation Enforcement banner image Conservation Enforcement banner image

Conservation Enforcement


Start Date: August


Location: Atlantic Police Academy


Length: 18 weeks


Credential: Certificate, Conservation Enforcement Officer


Program Availability: Fall 2024 Term

Canadian Applicants: Open

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: N/A

Other International Applicants: N/A


Please note: You must be a Canadian citizen or have Canadian permanent resident status to apply for this program.

In the Conservation Enforcement program, you will take courses in topics such as conservation investigations, defensive driving and traffic control, national use of force framework, scenario/reality-based training, and professional patrol tactics. After completing on-the-job training, you will be prepared to work in natural resource agencies as a conservation enforcement officer and in other related fields of enforcement and security throughout Canada. 

Conservation Enforcement students are required to live in residence for the duration of their training, except when they are in on-the-job training.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Conservation Enforcement Officer program at the Atlantic Police Academy, graduates will:

  1. Demonstrate ethical and professional deportment.
  2. Apply the elements of the federal and provincial Criminal Justice systems, including legislation, authorities, and policies as they pertain to the role of a Conservation Enforcement Officer.
  3. Explain the duties, roles, and responsibilities of a Conservation Enforcement Officer, including checking hunting and fishing parties for licenses, bag limits, and compliance with safety regulations, planning and executing compliance patrol plans, conducting conservation investigations relating to non-compliance, and promoting safety and conservation of resources with stakeholders.
  4. Apply critical thinking skills to make decisions and solve problems in a timely and effective manner. 
  5. Apply written communication skills in the completion of forms, reports, and other documentation as required including files for court briefings, continuity of evidence, and consultations with the Crown Prosecutor.
  6. Demonstrate effective verbal communication skills in all interactions, as well as verbal intervention and de-escalation skills and techniques in situations involving conflict and / or crisis.
  7. Demonstrate physical fitness and explain the importance of wellness strategies to deal with occupational stress.
  8. Demonstrate defensive driving and traffic control, as well as techniques for performing various types of vehicle stops in a safe and effective manner.
  9. Apply use of force tactics and procedures, including the use of firearms, using the National Use of Force Framework to select and articulate an appropriate response. 10. Identify the importance of ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and to keep pace with industry changes.

DEGREE PATHWAYS


This program has degree pathways, giving you the opportunity to receive credit for your Holland College diploma when you continue your education. For a complete list of agreements, visit the Degree Pathways page.

Partner Institution Credential Details of Agreement
Columbia Southern University, Orange Beach, Alabama, U.S.A. Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration Graduates receive 24 credits toward a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration degree.
  • Proof of Canadian citizenship or Canadian permanent resident status
  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • Minimum one year of post-secondary education*
  • 19 years of age by program start date
  • Successful completion of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2). The applicant is responsible for this cost. This test will be arranged by Holland College Admissions for those in the Maritime Provinces.The purpose of psychological testing is to assure the applicant's suitability to participate as a cadet at Holland College's Atlantic Police Academy. Although the process may be similar to screening for employment, that is not an objective nor the purpose of this testing.  Employers are encouraged to undertake further testing and background checks to ensure candidates' suitability for employment. Note: It is the responsibility of applicants who reside outside of the Maritime provinces to arrange for POST and MMPI testing in their region, with the exception of Newfoundland and Labrador applicants, who will be contacted to arrange a date for their testing. Testing for applicants who reside within the Maritime provinces takes place in P.E.I., and applicants are expected to be present for the date of their testing.
  • Successful completion of Physical Ability Requirement Evaluation Test (PARE). This is a PDF and will open in a new window.
  • Completion of an APA Medical Assessment Form (this is a PDF and opens in a new window)
  • Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector) with no findings of guilt. Find out more about Criminal Record Checks.
  • Successful completion of a full background check. Please download and complete the Consent to Criminal Record and Background Check form. This form is a PDF and will open in a new window.
  • Valid Class 5 (cars and light trucks) driver’s license (students holding restricted or graduated licenses must abide by the conditions of the license)
  • Three letters of reference, not from family members
  • Completion of Immunization Verification Form (this is a PDF and will open in a new window) (required after acceptance)
  • Certification in swimming – “Swim to Survive” or equivalent
  • Standard First Aid,  CPR Level C  and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) must be valid for the duration of the program. View a list of providers here. This training must be taken in person, NOT online.
  • Pleasure Craft Operator Card
  • All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) safety training course from a certified trainer
  • Successful completion of the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course
  • Résumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

*Preference is given to candidates who are qualified Forestry, Wildlife, Fishery, or Environmental Technicians or graduates of a renewable resource program. Completion of a two-year diploma in one of these areas is a requirement for employment in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.If you do not have a two-year diploma in one of these areas, your employment options may be limited.

Notes:

  • Not all provinces accept cadets for on-the-job training. If you want to request for a specific area outside of Atlantic Canada, it will be your responsibility to make the necessary arrangements for placement and you must notify the Admissions office of your intention prior to being confirmed in the program.
  • Don’t have the courses you need to get into this program? Upgrade, earn high school credits, or get your high school equivalency in Adult Ed. It’s free! 
  • If your first language is not English, please review our English Language Requirements page.

2023/2024 Academic Year

Tuition, fees, and other costs are listed in Canadian dollars.

18 Weeks

Canadian

Tuition $5,194
Fees $7,922*
Other Costs Please refer to detailed list below.
Total $13,116

*Includes lease of body armour, and mandatory residence fees and meal plan.

Canadian Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

18 Weeks

Tuition $5,194
Student Union $172
Health Insurance Fee $445
Books $200
Lab Fee $300
Uniform $1,550
Dry Cleaning $85
CPKN Course $140
Body Armour (Lease) $630
Accommodations/Meal Plan $4,300
Graduation Fee $100
Total payable to Holland College $13,116
   
Due first day of classes $13,116
   
Additional Requirements/Expenses  
1 pair of black polishable shoes – Military or Police Style varies
2 long sleeve plain white dress shirts suitable to wear a black tie. (no button-down collars) varies
1 pair of black dress pants varies
1 pair of quality running shoes varies
3 pairs of black socks varies
1 black tie – plain, single colour/no patterns (clip-on preferred) varies
Towels and personal toiletry articles varies
1 alarm clock or clock radio $20
1 mouth guard varies

Provincial and federal conservation wildlife and parks enforcement authorities.

DEGREE PATHWAYS

Many Holland College programs have degree pathway agreements with other post-secondary institutions. You can receive credit for your Holland College diploma toward a university degree or other post-graduate credential, saving you time and money! Find out more on the Degree Pathways page.

Course Code

Course Name & Description

Credit Values


Course Code:SAFE-1005

PEI Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:CONENF-1005

Conservation Officer Firearms Proficiency and Tactical Training

This course consists of specialized firearms safety, marksmanship and tactics. At the end of this course students will be skilled in firearms safety and will be prepared to use a variety of firearms (9mm handgun and 12 GA. shotgun) in various situations.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:CONENF-1010

Legislation and Regulation

This course will examine various pieces of Federal and Provincial Legislation and Regulation. This examination will enable students to navigate through Legislation and Regulation that relate to the execution of their duties as a Conservation Officer. Students will understand how to apply the powers given to them under these Acts and will become familiar with specific case law that impacts Conservation Enforcement.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:CONENF-1015

Law: Criminal Code

This course is an introduction to the Criminal Code and prepares Conservation Officers to effectively use the parts of the Criminal Code that apply to their work. Students discuss and explore legal topics that relate directly to their work as Conservation Officers. The topics to be covered include legal terminology, Powers of Arrest, search and seizure, the Charter, disclosure, case citation, warrants and statements. Case law regarding these issues are discussed. Through a mock course exercise, students experience acting as a crown witness and compelling a subject to appear in court.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:CONENF-1020

Conservation Investigations

This course will prepare students to conduct conservation enforcement investigations. Through a variety of delivery methods students will learn and practice sound investigative procedures. Students will focus on effective note taking practices, investigative report writing, information/evidence gathering, and practical skills applications.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:CONENF-1025

Professional Patrol Tactics

Professional patrol tactics introduces incoming Conservation Officers to basic tactics involved in the protection of themselves, other officers, and the public. Professional patrol tactics are designed to enhance officer safety and enhance the ability to control situations likely to be encountered on the job.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:CONENF-1030

Conservation Enforcement Compliance Patrol

This course examines the different types of conservation enforcement compliance patrols and the factors that must be considered when choosing the appropriate patrol type. Students learn to utilize information to plan an efficient and effective compliance patrol. This course also enables the student to effectively use the mobile communication system.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:CONENF-1035

Social Psychology

In this course, students examine communication, including types, barriers, as well as skills and strategies for effective communication and de-escalation. Students gain an awareness of mental disorders and cultural diversity, and their potential impact on human relations.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:CONENF-1040

Conservation Officer Physical Abilities Development

This course is designed to prepare students for the rigors of the Conservation Officer profession and the various physical tests that conservation departments require of their officers and applicants. This course encourages and challenges students to improve their fitness level through fitness programming and nutrition.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:CONENF-1046

Defensive Driving and Traffic Control

This course provides the student with enhanced driving skills to assist them in their work and everyday driving. Students complete the driving course which covers defensive driving skills, controlled responses, skid control techniques, and emergency stopping techniques. Additionally, students learn to secure and maneuver trailers safely and efficiently. Students are also shown the prescribed method for directing traffic (vehicle and pedestrian), and performing vehicle stops. Students practice these skills on the driving track to industry standards.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:CONENF-1050

Control Tactics

Conservation Officers are required to both verbally and physically intervene and control the outcome of a variety of situations. In this course, students demonstrate proficiency in the application of their intervention, defusing, and situation control skills by implementing various aspects of a current use of force model. Students also practice using the appropriate verbal requests, directions, commands, techniques, equipment, and weapons during the various interventions.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:CONENF-1055

Judgmental Scenario Training

This course is designed to increase officer safety as well as the ability of an officer to respond appropriately to specific threats, including lethal force. This course helps to develop decision-making skills along with the ability to effectively respond to threats, including those that are likely to cause bodily harm or death to those involved.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:CONENF-1060

Conservation Enforcement OJT

On the Job Training provides the opportunity for the student to be involved in all aspects of the conservation enforcement field. The student officer works under the supervision of a training officer and is involved in regular duties with that officer. As the training officer observes the student's performance in a variety of real world situations, observed competencies are measured and evaluated.

Credit Value:6


Course Code:CRES-1000

Crisis Intervention and De-escalation

Participants learn to use the Crisis Intervention and De-escalation (CID) Model and apply techniques to effectively de-escalate crisis situations, specifically those incidents involving intervention in a mental health crisis. This blended course consists of online learning activities through the Canadian Police Knowledge Network (CPKN), classroom training, as well as scenario based training.

Credit Value:1


Course Code:NCPR-1002

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems

Students complete Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and certification.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:PROF-1050

Professional Ethics and Deportment

The purpose of this course is to examine and practice ethical and professional behaviors to prepare students for making ethical choices during their time at the academy and in their professional public safety careers. Students are required to produce and follow a personal code of ethics, work as a team, and to exhibit behaviors and values that are consistent with the expectations of the profession and the public.

Credit Value:1


Conservation Enforcement background image Conservation Enforcement background image Conservation Enforcement background image

The program gave me not just the foundation, but also the skills and confidence to take on the often unique situations encountered by conservation enforcement officers. Whether it’s performing fishing checks on a crowded river, or interacting with a hunter alone in a remote location, The program set me up for success in these and many other situations. This allowed me to adapt to unfamiliar situations and gave me the tools to find successful enforcement outcomes.

Chris, Class of 2017

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