Horadam, J.

Evaluation and analysis of the DNER Ranger Corps including strategic plan for DNER Ranger Corps 2015-2020

2014

Naples, FL

MPA Enforcement International LLC

59

"While the Ranger Corps(RC) of the Department of Natural and Environmental Resource (DNER) in Puerto Rico is a large and well organized force there are issues that prevent it from providing an effective enforcement program and reaching its full potential. Most of the issues having a negative effect on the Ranger Corps can be eliminated, negated, or turned into an advantage. With proper leadership, resolve, commitment, and support from DNER, the Ranger Corps can become a well-respected, professional, and effective law enforcement arm in Puerto Ricos critical mission to protect the countrys natural and environmental resources. Established in 1977 the Ranger Corps (RC) of the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources has members stationed throughout the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Their main mission is to protect and preserve Puerto Ricos natural resources including habitats and species on land and sea. The rangers are certified law enforcement officers and have powers of arrest, search, and seizure. Observations have been made from both outside and within the organization that the Ranger Corps is not operating in the most effective and efficient manner. Therefore, conservation enforcement efforts are falling short of protecting the natural resources to the level necessary. This analysis will identify issues and problems that need to be corrected in order to bring about a professional, dedicated, and effective law enforcement team. While this analysis may appear to be overextended, complex, and unrealistic, it is believed the abilities, dedication, and determination of the men and women of the organization will prevail, enabling them to overcome and resolve the issues they face. The resulting recommendations and strategic planning may also appear to be difficult, unobtainable and expensive. On the contrary, MPA Enforcement International staff believe most of these goals are obtainable if top management is committed, and well within the abilities of personnel from DNER RC. Most of the issues and solutions are not of a funding or monetary issue by design. The solutions are based on the proper management and leadership of the employees. By far, the most important aspect of this report is the recommendations based on our belief in the abilities, skills, knowledge, and dedication of the people employed by DNER and the men and women of the Ranger Corps of all ranks."

English and Spanish versions of report are combined

FY2011 CRCP Project ID 20645; Project Title: O095 FY11 Domestic Coral Reef Conservation Grant Programs; Principal Investigator: Dana Wusinich-Mendez ~ FY2011 CRCP grant NA11NOS4820005

NOS/Office for Coastal Management (OCM)

NA11NOS4820005