A new group of state game wardens graduate from the academy today -- including several from the Sacramento region.
The 39 men and women will attend graduation ceremonies in Paradise, Butte County. The class includes 28 cadets who are already hired as wardens by the state Department of Fish and Game and 11 cadets who paid their way through the academy with the hope of becoming game wardens.
"They represent the department to the hunting and fishing community while protecting valuable natural resources," said DFG Chief of Enforcement Nancy Foley in a press release.
Wardens make contact with nearly 300,000 people a year, issuing 15,000 citations. The average warden patrols more than 600 square miles.
Wardens often act as arbitrators. They also recommend recreational activities and educate the public on the environment.
Among those graduating:
Timothy Bolla of Winters, Christopher Cahill of Elk Grove, Ryan Keylock of Sacramento, Jerry Prater of Sacramento, Mark Ratley of Roseville, Andrew Ross of Rocklin, Anthony Russo of Sacramento, Cory Stewart of Sacramento and William Witzel of Elk Grove.
The DFG teamed with Butte College in 2007 to provide training for prospective wardens.









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