Make sure you check out the Working with Wardens video with Bob Stroess!

Working with Wardens—Tips from WDNR Warden, Lt. Bob Stroess

AIS Violations other than OIT: If you see an illegal activity, such as a boater leaving with weeds on his boat and trailer

·         DON’T call the warden directly

·         CALL 1-800-TIP WDNR

·         Document what you see:

o   Date/Time/Location

o   Photo, photo, photo

o   Boat Registration number

o   Vehicle license plate

o   Make/model of boat

o   People descriptions

o   What was the issue you observed?

o   Did you contact the person at all to educate them? Remember YOU are NOT the enforcer. Were they receptive or did they ignore your efforts.

Contacting Wardens prior to launch visits, including special events like the Waterfowl Hunter AIS Outreach CBCW:

·         It’s been suggested in the past to contact them to avoid inadvertently being in the way of an investigation. Bob emphasized there is no need.

·         Want to partner on activity? Go ahead and ask. If they have time, they might. Wardens are very invested in AIS work after having gotten significantly involved over the last 12 or so years.

AIS Violations in Trade

·         Contact your WDNR Regional AIS Coordinator with the appropriate information below. They will let Organisms In Trade staff know, who will in turn loop in Law Enforcement as necessary

Pet Shops

o   Document what you see:

§  Date/Time/Location

§  Species with a photo and a voucher if possible

§  Who you talked to

§  What was the issue you observed?

§  Did you contact the person at all to educate them? Remember YOU are NOT the enforcer. Were they receptive or did they ignore your efforts.

Internet

o   Document:

§  Date/Time/Location (internet site)

§  Species

§  Link or screen shot of the sale

§  What was the issue you observed?

§  You do not need to contact, the WDNR Regional AIS Staff are trained for these situations.

Bait Shop

o   Contact the WDNR tip line: 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367