June 30, 2025 at 9:56 am
Protecting the woods and waters of Maine—and those who enjoy them—is no easy task. Maine Game Wardens undergo rigorous, comprehensive training before earning their badge.
The 2025 Advanced Warden School was put to the test from day one. Just before lights out on their first day, the class was called to assist in a search for two missing hikers on Maine’s tallest, most treacherous mountain. The next morning, they deployed to Mount Katahdin and played a critical role in the multi-day search. While the outcome wasn’t what anyone had hoped for, the experience served as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of their mission.
The class quickly returned to training mode. Week one covered patrol techniques, CPR and AED certification, emergency vehicle operation, and the mechanics of arrest, restraint, and control.
Weeks two and three included field scenarios of hunting and fishing checks, one where the role player was intoxicated. Topics covered included Maine’s conservation laws, OUI enforcement, advanced roadside impaired driving enforcement, landowner relations, wildlife conflicts, and Jiu Jitsu training.
Week three wrapped up with intensive water survival training, led by water survival instructors and members of the warden service dive team. In full gear, trainees learned to remain calm, conserve energy, and stay afloat in the high stress conditions they could face in the field.
Follow along over the next nine weeks as these future wardens continue their journey to becoming sworn law enforcement officers. Prior to Advanced Warden School, each member completed an 18-week Basic Law Enforcement Training Program . The 2025 class includes a future Pleasant Point Reservation Passamaquoddy Game Warden and four future Maine Game Wardens.