The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has promoted Jon Evans to the rank of colonel and chief of the agency’s Division of Law Enforcement.

His predecessor, Dale Caveny, retired Feb. 28, after 29 years of service. Evans will supervise a statewide team of 209 wildlife officers who enforce conservation and boating laws, and fish and wildlife regulations. A formal ceremony recognizing this promotion will be held March 24 at the Old House Chamber of the Historic State Capitol Building in Raleigh.

A wildlife officer since 1996, Evans has served as director of wildlife officer training since 2011. He previously had been stationed in Hyde, Martin and Wake counties before being promoted in 2008 to sergeant for Alamance, Orange and Caswell counties. Most recently, as captain in charge of training, he has worked at Commission headquarters in Raleigh. He is a native of Mebane and a N.C. State University graduate, and a veteran of the N.C. Army National Guard. Evans and his wife Jennifer have two children, and currently reside in Alamance County.

“Jon Evans has vast experience in investigative, administrative and field duties,” said Gordon Myers, executive director of the Wildlife Commission. “His leadership as training director demonstrated his commitment to build the best workforce possible. Along with his clear understanding of our strategic mission, his vision, integrity and work ethic will serve the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission well.”

In 2011, Evans was named wildlife officer of the year by both the N.C. Wildlife Federation and the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

“I am excited to lead such an incredible group of wildlife officers,” Evans said. “It is truly an honor. The men and women who are wildlife officers in this state exemplify the height of professionalism, in every aspect of our mission of conservation, promoting safe, responsible boating and providing for public safety.”

Wildlife officers enforce hunting, trapping and inland fishing regulations and boating laws to protect the resources of the state and the safety of its citizens. Their authority is granted by N.C.G.S. §113-136. Sportsmen and the public can assist wildlife officers in their duties by reporting violations anytime by calling 1-800-662-7137.