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Virginia DWR Advisory Council First to Receive State-Wide Unit Citation for Exceptional National-Level Teamwork
Richmond, VA — In recognition of their lasting impact on the conservation and protection of Virginia’s natural resources and their dedication to the advancement of conservation law enforcement, on March 20, 2024, Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources Travis Voyles presented DWR’s Office of Professional Standards Advisory Council (OPSAC) with the first Unit Citation awarded in Virginia state government.
The Office of Professional Standards Advisory Council was established within the DWR Law Enforcement Division in 2018 and provides guidance and insight over training, internal affairs, recruitment, and retention. In addition, as the Law Enforcement Division’s primary research group, the advisory council ensures that Virginia Conservation Police Officers stay at the forefront of law enforcement needs, implementing best practices, and improving service delivery.
“The council is a valuable resource for senior leadership and their input is instrumental with instilling our vision for professional standards including quality public service, being an employer of choice, and in our continuing pursuit of excellence,” said Colonel John J. Cobb. “The council not only talks the talk, they walk the walk, successfully implementing 33 team projects in the first five years of their organization. They exemplify the highest standards of excellence and have made a lasting impact on the division.”
In 2023, the OPSAC was awarded the Conservation Law Enforcement Award from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies which includes members agencies from all 50 states, several U.S. territories, federal agencies and wildlife agencies in Canada.
The OPSAC membership is comprised of 18 individuals serving as either standing or rotating members. Officers and staff at all levels within the Law Enforcement Division of DWR have served on the council, totaling 32 since it’s organization in 2018. In recognition of the Unit Citation, all officers who served on the council during the first five years will receive and wear a commendation bar on their uniform, identifying to all their level of achievement and dedication to the Commonwealth and the natural resources prized within its borders.
For more information on the Office of Professional Standards and the OPSAC, please visit the website.