[Beagle8U]

As an instructor of many years, and as such, a defacto employee of the DNR in my state, I'll offer my opinion on many of the issues presented in this thread.

Does a conservation officer have the legal right to enter private property to check licenses and possible violations?

Yes and No.

Just like any police officer, they can enter private property to investigate crimes and violations of law, IF they have just, probable cause, that a violation or crime, has been, or is likely to be, committed.

Just wander around private property to check things out?

Not just no, but hell no! No more than the county sheriff could park his fat ass in a lawn chair at your next backyard BBQ, just to make sure you commit no crimes.

Just as a cop needs a reason to stop your car, they need probable cause to check you or your property.

Is a conservation officer empowered the same as other police officers?

In most states Yes, they have the same powers as the state police. Not every DNR employee is classified as a conservation officer however.

[DoughtyOne]

Thank you for your comments. I appreciate them. To make it clear, that is pretty much what I thought. I just don’t like the idea of someone entering my property even for cause without my consent. If it’s a felony, I would reduce my objection, but I would want notification the moment it took place.

[SJackson]

My impression is that probable cause isn't necessary relative to game law violaions, but we've probably beaten this one to death.

My only real point was that the article was misrepresenting the intent and practice of the DNR, and that these kinds of "they're taking my guns away"/ "don't cooperate with the warden" panic driven articles don't accomplish a thing. In fact I think they hurt gunowners and hunters when they're not based on verifiable fact.