New episodes of Outdoor Channel’s Wardens start Dec. 30

Ready for a closer look at the work of conservation officers, biologists, foresters, park employees, naturalists and many others who help conserve, protect and manage our state’s natural and cultural resources? Set a reminder for Friday, Dec. 30, and a new season of “Wardens” – the Outdoor Channel’s TV show chronicling the lives of conservation officers in America since 2011.

This year’s episodes take viewers to locations across the state, including a walleye survey on Lake Gogebic, the Upper Peninsula’s largest natural inland lake; Hot Boat weekend at Hardy Dam on the Muskegon River and waterfowl hunting in the Saginaw Bay area.

“There is so much to do and explore in Michigan’s great outdoors, and DNR conservation officers and park rangers are glad to be on hand to ensure people are having a great time safely and responsibly and are respecting the state’s natural resources,” said David Haupt, who works out of the DNR’s Gladwin field office and helps coordinate with the show.

“‘Wardens’ pulls the curtain back a little, showing everyone the work the department does, and the pride we take in caring for fish, wildlife, woods and water – and in helping people better connect to these amazing resources,” he said.

The Michigan DNR first partnered with the Outdoor Channel on production of the television series in 2016. New episodes air on the Outdoor Channel Friday at 9:30 p.m., and then are repeated Saturday at 5:30 a.m., Sunday at 3:30 p.m. and Monday at 10:30 a.m. “Wardens” also continues to be available on WLUC FOX UP Sunday morning at 9:30.

Michigan-based Wolf Creek Productions is filming episodes at locations around the state. Conservation officers and staff from other DNR divisions and program areas will be featured throughout the season.