Wallace E. Leavine

Continued urban development and concurrent increases in population have created new challenges and opportunities for conservation agencies. These challenges stretch the traditional role of conservation agencies and their respective enforcement staff. To meet these challenges, agencies must develop innovative programs that generate new customers and public support for their mission while meeting the needs of their traditional customers. One such approach is developing partnerships with community groups. In May 1997, the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission's Division of Law...

With a canine's proven scenting ability, the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission began a study and pilot program to evaluate the possible uses of specially trained canines in conservation law enforcement. This paper will briefly describe the findings during the study period and the pilot program. Details into training methods will not be discussed.