Wrangell’s Wildlife Trooper position was vacated this month, but efforts are being made to refill it.
After about a year of service in the area Trooper Fred Burk put in his notice, resigning from the position after the end of September.
“We have been trying
to fill that position,” explained Captain Steve Hall, commander of the AST Southern Detachment covering Southeast and Southwest Alaska. “We want to see a trooper in the community there.”
In Southeast there are currently 15 trooper positions, including one lieutenant and three sergeants. A division of the Department of
Public Safety, the AWT is tasked with statewide patrol of commercial game and hunting activities, fisheries, promoting public safety and reducing environmental noncompliance.
Wrangell’s position was
previously considered for reduction last year, following a round of cuts to the department’s budget. At the time vacant, jurisdiction over the Wrangell area would have been merged with Petersburg’s office. Hall recounted a combination of input from the public and legislators had convinced AWT to reverse course and retain the Wrangell post, and Burk had been assigned to the area by the middle of the moose season.
The position is now
open to other troopers in the state, and candidates can submit their names for consideration. Troopers are considered based on qualifications and seniority. Once awarded, a trooper is given several months to relocate to the new assignment.
“It could happen sooner or later, depending on individual needs,” Hall explained. He anticipated Wrangell could have its new trooper by the spring of 2017, in time for the sport fishing season.
“In the meantime, primary coverage comes out of Petersburg,” he added.
For trooper assistance and other inquiries, residents are advised to call the AWT dispatch center in Ketchikan at 907-225-5118.
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