A photo of Ohio Wildlife Officer Zach Hillman is attached. Please credit the Division of Wildlife.

AKRON, OH – Zach Hillman, 22, of Green has been assigned at-large as the new Ohio wildlife officer in northeast Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

Officer Hillman is one of 12 Ohio wildlife officer cadets who have undergone extensive training and were sworn in as commissioned state wildlife officers during a virtual graduation ceremony on Aug. 21.

Officer Hillman, who grew up in Green, is currently working to complete a degree from The Ohio State University. He is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in natural resources management. Prior to the academy, Hillman served as a natural resource technician for Division of Wildlife in central Ohio. During his down time, Officer Hillman enjoys hunting, fishing, and boating with friends and family.

Besides the 17-week Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training, the cadets had eight 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, Hillman has statewide authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways, and property. He also contributes to public safety both locally in northeast Ohio (Wildlife District Three) 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 surveys; and provide technical advice and instruction about hunting, fishing, and other outdoor-related recreation.

Officer Hillman is now in the field and will continue his training by working with experienced wildlife officers during the next six months.

The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

For more information, contact:

Jamey Emmert, Division of Wildlife

Jamey.Emmert@dnr.state.oh.us

330-802-9152