Ohio Wildlife Officer Chase McDonald, of Manchester, has been assigned to Clermont County, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. Officer McDonald replaces State Wildlife Officer Gus Kiebel, who transferred to Adams County in 2021.
Officer McDonald, 21, graduated from Manchester High School and then Hocking College in 2023 with a degree in natural resources law enforcement. During his down time, Officer McDonald enjoys hiking with his wife, hunting, and fishing.
Officer McDonald is one of 13 Ohio wildlife officer cadets who completed the 32nd Wildlife Officer Training Academy and was sworn in as a commissioned wildlife officer during a graduation ceremony on Friday, March 15.
In addition to the 21-week Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training, the cadets completed 10 weeks of specialized wildlife officer training by the Division of Wildlife. In addition to wildlife law enforcement procedures and agency policies, the cadets received training in areas of wildlife and fisheries management, communications, outdoor education, all-terrain vehicle operation, hunter safety, and advanced firearms and self-defense topics.
As a wildlife officer, McDonald has statewide authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways, and property. As a state law enforcement officer, he also contributes to public safety both locally in southwest Ohio (Wildlife District Five) and in Ohio’s vast outdoors. Each year, Ohio’s wildlife officers speak to hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife programs; perform fish and wildlife conservation duties; and provide technical advice and instruction about wildlife management issues, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor-related recreation.
Officer McDonald is now in the field and will continue his training by working with experienced wildlife officers during the next six months. To reach Officer McDonald directly, call (513) 673-1566. To report suspicious activity involving wildlife, call (800) POACHER (762-2437). Reports can remain anonymous.
