Washington County Conservation is considering having their park ranger employees carry long guns.
Park Ranger Mark Even and Ranger Technician Jayse Horning have suggested they carry a rifle and a shotgun, which the conservation board discussed at their recent meeting. Washington County Conservation Director Steve Anderson explains their reasoning, “There are situations that law enforcement can encounter where it’s an absolutely essential tool. Basically it’s where you get into a scenario where you have individuals with bad intentions that are armed in that manner. You need to be able to match their amount.”
Anderson says the board is working with the Washington County Sheriff’s Department to figure out if and how these weapons can be acquired, as well as proper storage and use. Both ranger employees are certified to carry hand and long guns, as well as tasers. A proposal of how to proceed with weapon use will be presented to the board at their September meeting.