Photo Courtesy Vermont Fish and Wildlife David LeCours is new chief game warden WATERBURY - David LeCours of Barre, a Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department state game warden since 1982, has been named as Vermont's new Chief Game Warden.

Mr. LeCours served as Major and second in command since 2005.

"We appreciate that Colonel LeCours is willing to serve as the Chief Game Warden for the Fish & Wildlife Department and people of Vermont," said Fish &Wildlife Commissioner Wayne Laroche. "His comprehensive knowledge, extensive experience, dedication to the job, and leadership skills make him very well qualified and a logical choice for the position."

Former Chief Game Warden Colonel Robert Rooks from Westford retired in November. Mr. LeCours has served as Acting Chief Warden since then.

"I feel it is important for game wardens to continue to enforce Vermont's fish and wildlife laws, but also to contribute our unique outdoor skills in cooperative crime investigations, search and rescue operations, and law enforcement for boating, ATV and snowmobile activities," said Mr. LeCours. "Our game wardens are trained and qualified to enforce all Vermont state laws, but their outdoor training and skills set them apart from other law enforcement personnel when it comes to outdoor work and serving the people of Vermont."

Vermont's game wardens have been enforcing fish and wildlife laws and protecting Vermont's fish and wildlife resources for more than 100 years. Although few in number, wardens are highly effective at preventing exploitation of Vermont's fish and wildlife resources. They also ensure that people purchase the licenses that provide core funding for fish and wildlife management programs. Wardens are an integral part of the Fish and Wildlife Department and are involved in nearly every biological, educational and outreach program of the department said Mr. LeCours.