The Executive Reorganization Act of 1989 merged the formerly independent agencies constituting the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks in order to house conservation and outdoor recreation programs and administration under one roof. Management, however, has not efficiently coordinated resources as the merger intended. DWFP has not revised its five-year strategic plan to include all areas of responsibility granted in 1989. Poor recordkeeping and inconsistent application of policies hamper timely collection of license revenues. DWFP management has still not improved collections of half-fine money owed to the department, a problem PEER noted in 1982.
DWFP has not followed state law regarding additional training for Bureau of Marine Resources law enforcement officers. The department cannot ensure that property seized due to violations of DWFP laws is accounted for and/or stored as evidence in an appropriate holding facility until trial or forfeiture proceedings commence. DWFP’s fleet information system is not adequate and fails to provide a valid basis for vehicle assignment, purchases, replacement, and maintenance.
For a paper copy of this report, contact PEER by telephone at 601-359-1226 or by e-mail at reports@peer.ms.gov.