New studies show B.C. conservation officer service levels are dangerously low.
From 2001 to 2012 the amount of officers in the Kootenays decreased by 20% – dropping from 20 to 15.
The B.C. Government and Service Employees Union notes new studies show a 32% reduction in field staff in recent years while there has been a 70% increase in problem wildlife calls.
President Stephanie Smith points out a major concern is the nine single officer posts across the province.
Smith says the province has a philosophy of being lean but they must hire more conservation officers.