Forest Service special agents, assistant special agents in charge, senior special agents, and supervisory special agents report: nationwide study

Abstract

This is the fourth in a series of studies to evaluate perceptions of U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service law enforcement personnel of the roles, responsibilities, and issues related to their jobs. An e-mail survey was administered to the 89 Forest Service special agents, assistant special agents in charge, senior special agents, and supervisory special agents (SAs) across the United States. Seventy completed and returned the questionnaire. Communication with others in the Forest Service was important to the SA respondents, as evidenced by their efforts to communicate at group meetings, and their use of e-mail and the phone. A major concern for the SA respondents was the shortage of SAs and law enforcement officers. Forest Service SA respondents ranked their highest job priorities as protecting National Forest System employees and forest users, followed by protecting forest resources and public property. Nationally, a successful program was characterized as one with sufficient resources that is understood by those engaged in or affected by the program.

Citation

Chavez, Deborah J.; Tynon, Joanne F. 2007. Forest Service special agents, assistant special agents in charge, senior special agents, and supervisory special agents report: nationwide study. Res. Pap. PSW-RP-255. Albany, CA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station; 43 p