EIGHTEENTH WATERWAYS CONSERVATION OFFICER CLASS GRADUATES

​The 10 members of the 18th Waterways Conservation Officer Class graduated from training at ceremonies held today in the State Capitol Building in Harrisburg. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director Dr. Douglas Austen presided over the ceremonies.

Waterways Conservation Officers (WCOs) make up the law enforcement arm of the Fish and Boat Commission, though the duties of a WCO go beyond police work. WCOs perform specialized work in fisheries conservation and watercraft safety, education and public relations – responsibilities that are emphasized through specialized training.

The graduation marked the successful completion of a course of instruction that began more than one year ago. The officers completed Municipal Police Officer Training, provided by the Pennsylvania State Police, followed by Conservation Officer Training. In addition to classroom and practical training at the Commission's H.R. Stackhouse School of Fishery Conservation and Watercraft Safety, the officers completed field training with experienced waterways conservation officers.

The Honorable Joseph H. Kleinfelter, President Judge for the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas administered the Oath of Office. Class President Robert Plumb spoke on behalf of the graduates. Jeremiah Allen was awarded the Edward W. Manhart Award in Academic Achievement for maintaining the highest grade point average during training.

Graduates, their hometown and new district patrol assignment include: