124 Kandy Klosterman – Ohio Division of Wildlife Chief of Law Enforcement

Warden's Watch

From humble beginnings fishing the tranquil lakes of Ohio to her current position as Chief of Law Enforcement for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division, Kandy Klosterman is no stranger to blazing trails. As the state's pioneering female wildlife investigator, she spearheaded numerous high-profile cases, earning multiple accolades along the way – including the prestigious Guy Bradley Award for lifetime contributions to wildlife law enforcement. With a career spanning nearly three decades, her commitment to safeguarding Ohio's natural resources, mentoring the next generation of officers, and championing the inclusion of women in wildlife conservation sets the standard for excellence. We can’t wait to see what she does next!

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International Wildlife Crimestoppers

Here’s what we discuss:

• Accepted Chief of Law Enforcement position in June 2023
• Grew up fishing and hunting with her grandfather in Ohio
• Mentors are essential
• “You’re not born with a shotgun or fishing rod in your hand.”
• Worked mowing grass on ODNR property
• “I want to be a wildlife officer!”
• Volunteering led to a part-time position
• Only woman in the Academy in 1998
• Mentoring the next generation of officers
• All staff take part in educating new cadets
• 1920s saw the first female wildlife officer in Ohio
• 15 female officers in 120 years, but more all the time
• Early career involved several areas of the state
• Wildlife investigator for 21 years
• Adventures in undercover work
• Ohio’s Women Officers of Wildlife group
• Female Wildlife Officers in OH wore men’s uniforms until the mid-90s
• Ohio DNR organization and command structure
• Nearly three-decade career
• Statewide working groups: “I don’t have to know everything.”
• Leveraging drone capabilities
• Plans to expand Search & Rescue
• Accreditation program for outfitters and guides
• A fraudulent interstate outfitter case
• Encouraging the next generation of female WOs
• “Someone taught you, now you need to teach them.”
• Working with cadets brings you back to your roots

Credits

Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores

Producer: Jay Ammann

Art & Design: Ashley Hannett

Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches

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