Assessment of Conservation Agent Safety Training in Missouri

As a result of an increasing frequency of assaults on conservation agents performing their duties, administrators of the Protection Division of the Missouri Department of Conservation requested Conservation Agent Training Academy staff look at the current status of officer safety training offered to agents. The division also decided to complete an extensive assessment of all training provided for conservation agents. To satisfy immediate needs and prepare a way to meet long-term needs, a Safety Needs Assessment was completed. Results of the assessment revealed relatively small gaps in safety training as well as a viable method for evaluating any future training needs.