Special Project: Wildlife K9 Detection Team

Originally published March 5, 2019

OWF is partnering with Oregon State Police’s Fish and Wildlife Division (OSP F&W) to launch a first-of-its-kind in Oregon, wildlife K9 detection program. OSP F&W, with funding help from the Foundation, is piloting the program this year with a single detection team based in Springfield. If the pilot program goes well, and with charitable support from the public, detection teams will eventually be located in every region of our state.

"Studies have shown that a well-trained dog can save up to 800 personnel hours per year."

--K9 detection teams for wildlife poaching

Wildlife K9 teams are trained to detect firearms and associated odors, find illegally-taken wildlife and related evidence, assist in the arrest of suspects, and perform valuable demonstrations and educational programs regarding poaching and related wildlife crimes. The Foundation’s role in this partnership is to help promote the program and accept donations on its behalf, to sustain and ultimately expand K9 detection teams across Oregon.

Image: Buck, the detection canine, receives training for his new role. Buck is currently receiving training across the country, and should graduate to Oregon by fall 2019.