Fish & G. Code, § 12028

The Legislature finds and declares that:

(a) Poaching violations and other violations of the Fish and Game Code have been increasing, and these violations have a detrimental impact on fish and wildlife and their habitats, which are held in trust by the state for the benefit of the people of the state.

(b) In order to deter illegal poaching and other violations that adversely impact fish and wildlife, it is important that the department coordinate with other law enforcement entities and the courts to facilitate effective enforcement and prosecution of these offenses.

(c) The department, to the extent feasible and subject to available resources, shall establish and coordinate an environmental crimes task force. The task force should involve the participation of the department’s Office of General Counsel working with each of the department’s law enforcement districts. The task force may include coordination with representatives from the California District Attorneys’ Association, the Judicial Council, the Attorney General’s office, and the University of California. Objectives of the task force may include, but are not limited to, providing training, education, and outreach to prosecutors and the courts on Fish and Game Code violations and providing other assistance as appropriate in the prosecution of environmental crimes.