Since its launch in 1983, North Dakota’s Report All Poachers (RAP) program has become a vital partnership between the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, the North Dakota Wildlife Federation and State Radio Communications. With only about 30 field wardens covering the vast expanse of the state, the program relies on everyday North Dakotans to act as extra eyes and ears for wildlife law enforcement.
How the program works
When a resident observes a possible hunting or fishing violation, they are asked to gather as much information as possible – vehicle license plates, boat registration numbers, descriptions of people and vehicles – and then call the RAP hotline at 328‑9921. Wardens stress that callers should never confront the suspected violator; instead, they should collect the details and let the warden investigate.
Corey Erck, a district game warden, explained, “We get about 100 calls per year that are investigated by our wardens. Some violations are minor and inadvertent, but the program helps us focus on the serious ones.”
Funding through forfeiture
The RAP program is uniquely funded by the very equipment seized from illegal hunters and fishers. Firearms, bows and other gear confiscated by the courts are forfeited to the North Dakota Wildlife Federation. Every few years the federation auctions the collected equipment, and the proceeds go directly to paying rewards and sustaining the RAP program.
Erck added, “Once the equipment is forfeited, it goes to the Wildlife Federation, which holds an auction. All proceeds fund rewards and keep the RAP program running.” This self‑sustaining model ensures that the program does not rely on taxpayer dollars, aligning with the state’s tradition of fiscal responsibility.
Why the program matters to families and communities
For North Dakota families who cherish hunting, fishing and the outdoors, the RAP program protects the integrity of those traditions. By deterring illegal activity, it helps preserve wildlife populations for future generations and safeguards the safety of lawful hunters who follow the rules.
“When people know there’s a way to report violations and that their tips can lead to real action, it strengthens community trust in our wildlife agencies,” said Erck. The program also offers modest rewards to callers whose information leads to successful enforcement, providing an additional incentive for civic participation.
Getting involved
Residents interested in supporting the effort can simply keep the RAP number handy and be ready to report any suspicious activity. The Game and Fish Department’s website (gf.nd.gov) offers further guidance on what constitutes a violation and how to submit tips safely.
In a state where outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of family life and local economies, the Report All Poachers program exemplifies how community members, government agencies and nonprofit partners can work together to uphold the law, protect natural resources and uphold the values that make North Dakota strong.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
