Twelve new Minnesota conservation officers now afield

St. Paul — Twelve new Minnesota DNR conservation officers have completed their training and now occupy previously vacant field stations across the state.

The officers, some of whom were hired through the Conservation Officer Prep program, completed the 15-week CO Academy at Camp Ripley and spent nearly four months in field training with experienced officers. Those who came in through CO Prep also spent four months earning their peace officer license at Hennepin Technical College before the CO Academy.

The officers bring diverse backgrounds and broad experience from which they’ll draw as they serve communities across Minnesota.

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“Our conservation officers are on the front lines of ensuring future generations have the same or better opportunities to enjoy our state’s natural resources than we have today,” said Col. Rodmen Smith, director of the DNR Enforcement Division.

“All 12 of these new officers have proved they have what it takes to carry on the proud, 138-year tradition of serving the people and natural resources of Minnesota.”

The DNR plans to hire in late winter/early spring 2026 for a CO Academy in spring 2027. To sign up for notifications on when applications open, visit the CO careers webpage on the DNR website.

New officers and where they’re stationed: Grey Corbus, at Pelican Rapids; Ryan Schaefer at Bemidji (#2); Jack Lien at Walker; Jacob Kaden at Long Prairie; Jayden Frank at Mound; Kris Ryan at La Crescent; Nathan Garza at Duluth (west); Rheanna Deal at Duluth (east); Kaitlyn Istvanovich at Onamia; Danielle Reuss at Benson; Jacob Peterson at Redwood Falls; and Josephine Homeier at Spring Valley.