Wilderness supervision in state-owned lands will improve in the autumn with the addition of two new Game and Fisheries Wardens in Lapland. The number of Metsähallitus’ permanent Game and Fisheries Wardens will therefore increase to 13 in total. Recruitment for the new wardens will begin after the summer holiday season.

Metsähallitus’ wilderness supervision inspects approximately 10,000 visitors every year. In recent years, outdoor activities and nature tourism have become more popular, creating pressure to increase wilderness supervision.

“Lapland is a natural placement for the new Game and Fisheries Wardens. Lapland has the largest number of state-administered lands, with versatile use throughout the year. The growth of nature tourism also increases the need for permanent supervision in Lapland,” explains Vesa Ruusila, Director of Game and Fisheries.

Natural livelihoods and recreational use of nature are also particularly important in Lapland. In addition, the large wilderness areas and national parks require better resources for supervision. The targeting of supervision complies with the Act on the Supervision of Hunting, Fishing and Wilderness Areas by Metsähallitus. The purpose of the act is to promote legal use of state-owned lands.

“The additional permanent wardens will strengthen supervision in Lapland in the long term. Additionally, they will increase the potential for detecting serious crimes related to the use of nature. Metsähallitus’ ability to cooperate with other authorities will also be strengthened,” says Henri Pelkonen, Manager of Game and Fisheries Supervision.

Recruitment will begin after the summer holiday season. The Game and Fisheries Wardens’ placement and areas of operation will be specified later.

Metsähallitus Game and Fisheries Wardens have completed police training. Their authority and powers are defined by law. Game and Fisheries Wardens coordinate wilderness supervision in their area of operation. They are assisted by other officials, such as hunting and fishing supervisors, especially during the high season.

Further information

Henri Pelkonen, Manager, Game and Fisheries Supervision, Metsähallitus, +358 40 1981623

Vesa Ruusila, Director of Game and Fisheries, Metsähallitus, +358 40 8406877

Firstname.lastname(at)metsa.fi