News release

Province Unveils Monument to Fallen Conservation Officers

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Nova Scotia conservation officers killed in the line of duty were remembered today, Sept. 19.

Natural Resources Minister John MacDonell unveiled a monument commemorating the lives of three fallen officers, as part of the department's first open house at the Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park.

In the past 135 years, three conservation officers have lost their lives in service to the province. The fallen officers, A. Harrison Eisenhauer, Austin Whiley Lavers Letcher and Donald C. Wood, were represented at the event by family members.

"On behalf of all Nova Scotians, I would like to acknowledge the service of these officers, for making the ultimate sacrifice for the province, and offer my best wishes to their families," said Mr. MacDonell. "Hopefully, this memorial inspires Nova Scotians to learn more about the lives of these men and the important work of conservation officers. It is also my hope that no other names are added to this monument."

Eric Eisenhauer, son of A. Harrison Eisenhauer, said the recognition "means a lot" to his family.

"It's a great honour to have my father recognized in this way and it's something future generations of our family can appreciate," said Mr. Eisenhauer.

A. Harrison Eisenhauer (1885-1931) was beaten to death by three hunters in the Kearney Lake area of Halifax County while checking on a complaint of Sunday hunting. The Conservation Enforcement Officers Association of Nova Scotia named an award in his honour in 1985, for the member who most contributes to conservation enforcement.

Austin Whiley Lavers Letcher (1905-1967) died in a motor vehicle accident in Port Hawkesbury.

Donald C. Wood (1925-1988) was killed in an accidental explosion while on patrol in Oxford while addressing a wildlife complaint for the use of explosives.

The three men were previously recognized by the Canadian peace officers honour roll and the Canadian Police and Peace Officer memorial in Ottawa.

The Department of Natural Resources employs about 70 conservation officers who are responsible for protecting and enforcing laws for natural resources such as wildlife, inland fish, forests, parks and beaches.