Department of Land and Natural Resources

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES
News Release

DAVID Y. IGE GOVERNOR

SUZANNE D. CASE CHAIRPERSON

For Immediate News Release January 12, 2017 

NEW STATE RESOURCES ENFORCEMENT CHIEF ANNOUNCED
Robert Farrell to lead conservation enforcement across Hawai’i

(Honolulu) – DLNR Chair Suzanne Case has announced that Robert Farrell begins work on Jan. 17, 2017 as the new Enforcement Chief for the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE).  Case said, “We are fortunate to have a leader who has extensive conservation enforcement experience both within our own agency and with other organizations tasked with protecting natural and cultural resources. In addition, Bob’s close ties to Hawai’i, its people and as a respected DOCARE officer make him the perfect fit to lead the division.”

Farrell has more than 20 years of experience in the field of fish and wildlife enforcement. He retired in 2015 as Assistant Chief for the California Department of Fish and Game. After retirement, Robert went to work for DOCARE as a conservation officer on Hawa’i Island assigned to the Hilo district.

Farrell commented, “Working as a conservation officer is one of the best jobs you could ever have and it’s a job that I love. But when the chiefs’ job became available, I knew it was my kuleana to step up and do what I could for DOCARE. I am very grateful for the opportunity and I look forward to working with our officers to protect the natural beauty and cultural resources of Hawai’i for everyone.”

Farrell has a Master of Science degree in Emergency Services Administration from California State University at Long Beach. He was born on Oahu and raised in California and Hawai’i. He is married with two daughters.

DOCARE has more than 100 officers spread across the state. The Division is responsible for enforcement activities of the Department.  Officers have full police powers and enforce all State laws and rules involving State lands, State Parks, historic sites, forest reserves, aquatic life and wildlife areas, coastal zones, Conservation districts, State shores, as well as county ordinances involving county parks. The division also enforces laws relating to firearms, ammunition, and dangerous weapons. It also puts great emphasis on educating people on safe and lawful activities on public lands and in the ocean.

 

MEDIA CONTACT

Dan Dennison
Senior Communications Manager
Hawaii Dept. of Land & Natural Resources
Communications Office
(808) 587-0407