For over eight years, I have worked side by side with incredible people at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, and I work very closely with the Maine Warden Service. I have seen leadership at its best, team operation every organization dreams of and service delivery that is by far too commendable for words to express. Not once did a game warden consider their own safety before reaching out to help anyone in need.

So when you come to understand the life of a Maine game warden, you quickly learn that their work is diverse, challenging and often dangerous. It takes place during the best and worst of weather conditions. Their work includes lifesaving events: preventing a heroin overdose, saving a lost person from hypothermia and placing a convicted murderer back in prison.

Their job and way of life is guarded by values such as passion, integrity, honesty and commitment. Their actions are not only about enforcement; it starts with education, community involvement, collaboration and teamwork each step of the way.

They are professional law enforcement officers and search and rescue experts. Every day, for more than 130 years, the Maine Warden Service has demonstrated its commitment to protect and preserve Maine’s quality of life and outdoor activities.

So hold your horses before you react to media drama and take a close look at what the Warden Service is (maine.gov/ifw/warden_service). Because here you can find accountability and responsibilities. I commend Joel Wilkinson, Maine Warden colonel, and his team for their service!

Maayan Lahti

Hallowell