Monday marked a significant milestone as the Yukon conservation officer services branch celebrated 75 years of service in promoting public safety and the protection of wildlife.

“The Government of Yukon is proud to join in the celebration of this important branch that provides key conservation efforts for Yukoners,” the government said in a statement.

Established in 1949 as the Government of Yukon game branch, the specialized agency has been at the forefront of safeguarding natural resources and promoting conservation in the Yukon.

Over many decades, the branch has evolved and expanded its leadership and role in protecting Yukon wildlife to continue to meet Yukoners’ needs.

Yukon Conservation Officer Services is responsible for vast areas of the wilderness.

It delivers programs and services across the territory, including Whitehorse and nine Yukon communities.

“Collaboration is key for the conservation officers and staff as they work with a variety of partners across these areas,” the government said.

This includes Yukon First Nation governments, transboundary Indigenous governments, the public, local and cross-jurisdictional law enforcement agencies, boards and councils and other community groups.

This year, Yukon Conservation Officer Services is hosting the Conservation Law Enforcement 2024 North of 60 Conference in Haines Junction from May 7-9.

This international conference offers an opportunity for sharing information and fostering collaboration.

It will bring together approximately 40 to 50 federal (Canadian and American) and provincial, territorial and state resource law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and intelligence analysts from across the Yukon, northern B.C., the N.W.T. and Alaska.

As the branch commemorates 75 years of service, Yukoners are invited to join in reflecting on the stories and achievements that have defined the conservation officer legacy in the Yukon and their unique connection with communities across the territory.

Throughout the summer season, conservation officers will be onsite at a variety of civic events in the Yukon.

“Conservation is a collective effort,” said Environment Minister Nils Clarke.

“We are proud to celebrate 75 years of environmental protection and conservation enforcement in the Yukon.

“Thanks to the dedicated branch staff for their stewardship of our natural resources, and to all Yukoners for their continuous support and co-operation to fulfill the Yukon conservation officer services’ branch mission to promote safe communities and protect wildlife.”

“The rich history and ongoing efforts of the conservation officer services’ branch highlight its pivotal role in preserving Yukon's natural heritage while navigating the complexities of delivering programs in a wilderness setting,” the government said.

As of 2024, there are conservation officers across the territory, with offices in Whitehorse, Haines Junction, Carmacks, Mayo, Dawson City, Faro, Ross River, Watson Lake and Teslin.

“Whether it’s providing advice about trapping, hunting or fishing, conducting educational programs, or responding to wildlife-related issues and public safety, conservation officers are passionate about their work and take pride in assisting Yukoners with their outdoor activities,” the government said.

“Their dedication to education, public safety and conservation law enforcement has been essential to the Yukon over their 75 years of service.”