The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issues a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Permit through an application process that includes a 75-question test. This test assesses applicants on various subjects such as wildlife biology, state rules and regulations, and effective strategies for the prevention and control of wildlife damage, requiring a minimum score of 80% to qualify. For those interested in becoming a NWCO, thorough preparation using the recommended resources and understanding the obligations and legalities involved are essential steps towards achieving the permit.
Ready to take the first step in obtaining your NWCO permit? Click the button below to begin filling out the Louisiana NWCO Test Form.
For those seeking to manage wildlife that pose a nuisance in Louisiana, the Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) permit application presents a critical step in obtaining the legal clearance to engage in this specialized activity. This comprehensive process not only involves a 75-question test covering a range of pertinent topics—from wildlife biology and behavior to the specific rules and regulations set forth by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF)—but also sets a high bar with a minimum passing score of 80%. The test, designed meticulously to ensure that applicants possess the necessary knowledge, touches upon various aspects, including prevention and control of wildlife damage and a broader understanding of general wildlife knowledge. In addition to navigating the test, applicants must also submit to a background check following a successful exam pass—a further step to ensure the responsibility and credibility of prospective permit holders. To assist in preparation, a host of recommended resources are made available, covering current hunting and trapping regulations, the specifics of NWCO’s rules, and notable publications on euthanasia and wildlife damage control. Successful applicants agree to adhere to a strict code, underlined by their acceptance of a permit that carries significant duties and regulations, potentially facing enforcement action if compliance is not maintained. The application journey concludes with the need to return the completed test and a signed release statement, marking the commitment of the applicant to uphold the standards and regulations set forth by the LDWF for the privilege of engaging in nuisance wildlife control.
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES NUISANCE WILDLIFE CONTROL OPERATOR (NWCO) PERMIT APPLICATION
This application consists of a 75-question test. The test questions relate to wildlife biology and behavior, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) rules and regulations, prevention and control of wildlife damage and general wildlife knowledge questions. You must receive a minimum score of 80% correct to qualify for the permit.
Recommended resources:
1) Current LDWF hunting and trapping regulations http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/publications/
2)LDWF rules and regulations for NWCO’s (Title 76-included at the end of application)
3)The 2000 Report of the AVMA Panel on Euthanasia http://www.avma.org/issues/animal_welfare/euthanasia.pdf
4)Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage Handbook published by the University of Nebraska
www.icwdm.org.
Return the completed application form, test and signed release statement. The test will be scored as soon as possible. If a passing score is achieved, a background check will be conducted on the applicant. If the applicant passes the background check, a permit will be issued and the permittee must abide by the rules and regulations or face possible enforcement action including citations and loss of their permit.
For additional information contact Emile P. LeBlanc DMAP Coordinator (225)765-2344 or via email at eleblanc@wlf.louisiana.gov
APPLICATION FOR NUISANCE WILDLIFE CONTROL OPERATOR (NWCO) PERMIT
***Providing false information will result in denial of permit***
NAME
DATE:
ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
ZIP:
PARISH:
PHONE: H( )
W( )
Date of Birth:
DRIVERS LICENSE #
SSN:
LOUISIANA TRAPPING LICENSE # __________________________________
SPECIES WILLING TO WORK WITH _____________________________________________
PARISHES WILLING TO WORK IN ______________________________________________
Please Return To:
LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE & FISHERIES
WILDLIFE DIVISION
ATTN: Emile P. LeBlanc
P.O. BOX 98000
BATON ROUGE, LA 70898-9000
(225) 765-2344/FAX (225) 763-5456
Be sure to return the signed release statement and the test.
NWCO PERMIT APPLICATION RELEASE STATEMENT
This statement must be signed and returned with the application before a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Permit can be issued.
“I have been advised and do understand that by applying for and accepting a permit issued by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, I am being allowed to engage in an activity which would otherwise be prohibited by law or for which a permit is required. I understand that the permit is not a license and confers no property right upon me. I specifically agree to abide by all State and Federal fish and wildlife laws and regulations, and all State and Federal laws and regulations which relate to this permit or the permitted activity, and by all other terms and conditions of this permit. I understand that the permit for which I am applying may be suspended, canceled or revoked at any time by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. I agree to immediately surrender the permit issued to me upon demand made upon me by any authorized employee of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. I understand that my failure to fully and completely comply with the laws, regulations, terms, and conditions referred to herein could result in the immediate suspension, cancellation or revocation of this and other permits issued to me by the Department and that I may be denied future permits as a consequence of my actions. I understand and agree that any permit issued to me by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is in the nature of a privilege which is being voluntarily extended to me by the Department and the failure on my part to cooperate fully and completely with the Department or its employees can result in the loss of the privilege conferred and the denial of future requests for permits. By accepting this permit, I evidence my agreement to be bound by all conditions and stipulations set forth herein.”
_____________________________________
Signature
Date
NUISANCE WILDLIFE CONTROL OPERATOR EXAM
MULTIPLE CHOICE – CHOOSE THE ONE BEST ANSWER
1)Which of the following is NOT and approved method of euthanasia for raccoons according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)?
a.drowning
b.gunshot
c.penetrating captive bolt
d.CO2 chamber
2) Annual reports of nuisance wildlife control activities shall be submitted
.
a. on the expiration date of the permit
b. within 30 days of the expiration date of the permit c. every six months
d. no later than 10 days after the expiration date of the permit
3)You receive a call from a person who is concerned that the high numbers of bobcats in an area are reducing the rabbit population. It is early summertime and they want to get rid of as many bobcats as possible before rabbit season. The best solution by the NWCO to this problem would be:
a.capture as many bobcats as you can in live traps and relocate them, and then start using snares.
b.explain to the person that you cannot provide that type of service because this does not constitute a valid nuisance wildlife complaint
c.apply for a special night-shooting permit for bobcats and begin hunting them at night.
d.advise the landowner that he should put out poison for the bobcats by injecting dead chickens with rat poison and placing them in areas where bobcats are seen.
4)Which of the following MAY NOT be taken under the authority of a NWCO permit?
a.big brown bat
b.red fox
c.Rock doves
d.woodpeckers
5)Which of the following methods are legal for taking coyotes?
a.leghold traps
b.snares
c.daylight shooting
d.All of the above
6)A permitted NWCO may use poison to control wildlife if:
a.he/she possesses a commercial pesticide applicators license and the chemical is registered for use against the target species
b.he/she has verbal authorization from a Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries biologist
c.the animal is inside a human dwelling
d.the poison is registered for use on agricultural crops
7)The most common species of venomous snakes in Louisiana are the:
a.green snake and king snake
b.ground rattler and canebrake rattlesnake
c.coral snake and bull snake
d.cottonmouth and copperhead
8)Before shooting, under the conditions of the NWCO permit, the NWCO must
a.attach a silencer to the weapon
b.abide by all state and municipal firearms restrictions
c.wait until nightfall
d.use steel shot only
9)A potential client calls about raccoons and opossums that have been getting into their garbage cans. Which one of the following offers the best long term solution to the problem?
a.capture the animals in live traps and relocate them
b.recommend preventative measures to keep animals from accessing garbage
c.place ammonia-soaked rags in each of the garbage cans
d.capture the animals in live traps and euthanize them
10). How many assistants can you designate to operate under your NWCO permit?
a.none
b.one
c.two
d.unlimited
11)Which of the following method is useful in preventing woodpecker damage to wood siding?
a.hanging netting over the affected area
b.using visual or auditory frightening methods
c.applying a sticky repellant to the affected area
d.all of the above
12). You capture a raccoon and determine it has a litter of young inside a wall or attic. Upon investigating, you find that its kits still have their eyes closed, but you can’t reach them. The client doesn’t want you to cut any holes in the wall to get them out. Which of the following offers the best alternative?
a. pour 1-2 cups of ammonia down the opening, then release the mother so that she’ll move the young when it gets dark in 6-8 hours.
b. place the live trap (with the female still in it) close to the opening so that the young hear her and come out when they get hungry
c. place solid deodorizer blocks in the opening and then seal it up
d. release the mother at the site and check the next morning to see if the disturbance caused her to move her young during the night
13)Which of the following species of venomous snake is native to Louisiana?
a.Western diamondback rattlesnake
b.Eastern diamondback rattlesnake
c.Sidewinder rattlesnake
d.Diamondback water snake
14)Which of the following birds can be legally killed in Louisiana without any special permits?
a.egrets
b.rock doves
c.chicken hawks
15)NWCO’s may control nuisance alligators _______.
a.if the alligator is less than 4 feet long
b.if the alligator is released alive
c.always
d.never
16)Wolves pose a particularly difficult problem for the NWCO because_______.
a.they are too big for live traps
b.they rarely leave enough evidence behind to identify
c.there are no wild wolves in Louisiana
c. they are extremely dangerous to approach when caught in a trap
17)NWCO’s may keep which parts of animals taken under the authority of the NWCO permit?
a.skins
b.skulls
c.teeth
d.none
18) Traps must be checked and all animals removed a minimum of once every
hours.
a.12
b.24
c.36
d.48
19)is NOT an authorized method of capture.
a.padded leghold trap
b.steel jaw leghold trap
c.toothed leghold trap
d.snare
20)All traps and other capture devices shall be set in a manner that
a.is out of the view of the general public.
b.will maximize the risk to non-target animals.
c.is approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
d.is securely attached to a stake driven into the ground.
21)A homeowner calls and complains that something has killed several of his chickens but doesn’t know what. When you arrive to investigate, you find the dead chickens in the pen neatly
stacked in a pile. Immediately you suspect the predator is a
a.raccoon
b.opossum
c.fox
d.mink
22)
The most versatile control tool for coyotes are size
leghold traps.
a. one and two
b. two and three
c. three and four
d. four and five
23)
Removing brush piles and weed patches to control rabbits is an example of
a. landscape management
b. habitat modification
c. indirect control
d. population manipulation
24) When presented with an abundance of food,
may kill more animals than they can eat.
a.snakes
b.opossums
c.hawks
25) The use of in most situations where beavers are causing damage is the most
effective, practical and environmentally safe method of control.
a.firearms
b.traps
c.repellants
d.trained dogs
26)Bats in Louisiana can be grouped into what category?
a.fruit bats
b.insectivorous bats
c.vampire bats
d.house bats
27)A beaver colony usually consists of_______ related beavers
a.4 to 8
b.0 to 20
c.1 to 5
d.more than 20
28)_______ can be used to prevent birds from roosting in the rafters of buildings.
a.ladders
b.high frequency sounds
c.netting
d.roach bombs
29)_______ are responsible for most raptor depredation problems.
a.chicken hawks
b.Great Horned owls
c.Red-tailed hawks
d.Falcons
30)Characteristic signs of _______ activity are shallow holes 1-3 inches deep and 3-5 inches wide.
a.snake
b.coyote
c.weasel
d.armadillo
31)You respond to a complaint from a landowner who has had some adult turkeys killed. You find a turkey carcass hidden under a pile of leaves and soil. What animal would you suspect is responsible?
a.coyote
b.fox
c.Great Horned owl
d.bobcat
32)_______ often kill calves by eating into the anus or abdominal area.
a.coyotes
b.bobcats
d.foxes
33)A Conibear© type, # 330 is one of the most effective types of body-gripping trap to catch
b.mink
c.beavers
d.coyotes
34)A toxic perch is
a.a perforated metal tube containing a wick saturated with a contact toxicant
b.a fish dipped in poison used to kill nuisance otter and mink
c.a perforated metal tube containing a sticky repellant
d.a bird roosting area contaminated by histoplasmosis spores
35)A homeowner calls and complains that something is killing his chickens but doesn’t know what. When you arrive to investigate, you find a chicken pen that is in a state of disrepair and has several places where a predator may enter the pen. The best solution to this problem is
a.Advise the owner to repair the pen to prevent any predators from entering.
b.Place a handful of mothballs at the holes in the pen to discourage predators.
c.Try to identify the predator and set an appropriate trap to remove the animal.
d.Block the holes in the pen with boards or bricks.
36)Foxes may cause serious problems for _______ producers.
a.blueberry
b.crawfish
c.poultry
37)To prevent mink from entering fenced livestock enclosures, seal all openings larger than_______.
a.1 foot
b.1 inch
c.1 centimeter
d.1 millimeter
38)Poultry killed by _______ usually have bloody puncture wounds in the back and breast.
a.skunks
c.raccoons
d.raptors
39)Recommended baits for live-trapping nutria are_______.
a.crawfish
b.small chunks of raw beef
c.sweet potatoes
d.oranges
40)A charged trip wire placed 6-8 inches above the ground and 8-10 inches outside a fence is often effective in preventing _______ from digging and crawling under.
b.minks
c.snakes
d.armadillos
TRUE/FALSE QUESTIONS
41.Wildlife may be released on State-owned lands without obtaining written permission.
a.true
b.false
42.There are no repellents registered to discourage rabbits.
43.You must submit an annual report of your activities related to nuisance wildlife control.
Successfully obtaining a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Permit in Louisiana requires passing a comprehensive examination that assesses one's knowledge of wildlife biology, behavior, state regulations, and control methods. The permit application process is designed to ensure that applicants possess the necessary skills and knowledge to manage wildlife humanely and according to legal standards. The following steps provide clear guidance for completing the application form and preparing for the test, emphasizing the importance of providing accurate information and studying recommended resources to achieve a passing score.
Once your application is submitted, the test will be assessed promptly. Achieving a passing score initiates a background check, the successful completion of which results in the issuance of your NWCO Permit. It is then your responsibility to conduct operations in compliance with LDWF regulations, understanding that failure to do so could lead to enforcement actions, including the suspension or revocation of your permit. Timely communication with the LDWF and adherence to all guidelines will ensure your status as a qualified Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator in Louisiana.
What is the passing score required on the Louisiana NWCO Test to qualify for a permit?
To qualify for a permit as a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) in Louisiana, applicants must achieve a minimum score of 80% correct on the 75-question test. The test assesses knowledge in areas such as wildlife biology and behavior, regulations set by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), prevention and control of wildlife damage, and general wildlife knowledge.
What resources are recommended for preparing for the Louisiana NWCO Test?
Applicants are encouraged to review several resources to prepare for the Louisiana NWCO Test. These include the current LDWF hunting and trapping regulations, LDWF rules and regulations specific to NWCOs (found in Title 76 included at the end of the application), the 2000 Report of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Panel on Euthanasia, and the Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage Handbook published by the University of Nebraska. Together, these resources provide a comprehensive understanding of the required knowledge for the test.
What happens after passing the Louisiana NWCO Test?
Upon achieving a passing score on the NWCO Test, the applicant's submitted application will undergo a background check conducted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Successfully passing this background check is necessary for the permit to be issued. Once granted, the permit holder must adhere strictly to all relevant rules and regulations; failure to do so may result in enforcement actions, including citations and potential loss of the permit.
Are there any specific species that cannot be taken under the authority of a NWCO permit in Louisiana?
Yes, there are specific restrictions regarding the species that may be taken under the authority of a NWCO permit in Louisiana. For instance, woodpeckers are not allowed to be taken under a NWCO permit. This is because woodpeckers, along with certain other species, may enjoy protections under state or federal law. NWCO permit holders must be familiar with and adhere to these restrictions to ensure compliance with wildlife conservation laws and regulations.
Filling out the Louisiana Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Permit Application requires attention to detail. However, applicants often rush through the process and make mistakes that can hamper their chances of obtaining a permit. One common error is not thoroughly reading recommended resources before attempting the 75-question test. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries provides valuable materials designed to help applicants succeed. Skipping these resources can result in avoidable errors.
Another frequent oversight is failing to provide complete and accurate personal information. The form asks for details such as name, address, phone number, and licensing information. Some applicants leave fields blank or enter incorrect information. This can lead to delays in the application process or outright denial of the permit.
Many applicants underestimate the importance of the list of species they are willing to work with and the parishes they are willing to serve. Being too restrictive or too broad in these sections can affect the approval process. It is crucial to be realistic and precise about the capacities and geographical areas one can cover.
Not returning the signed release statement along with the test is a mistake that can render the entire application void. This document is essential for the permit to be issued, as it signifies the applicant's understanding and agreement to abide by all relevant laws and regulations.
A critical error often made is not preparing adequately for the 75-question exam. This test covers a wide range of topics, from wildlife biology and behavior to state and federal regulations. Some applicants do not study sufficiently and do not achieve the minimum score of 80% correct answers required to qualify for the permit.
Some applicants choose not to conduct a self-background check before applying. While the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will perform this check, knowing what might come up and addressing potential issues ahead of time can be beneficial.
Another common pitfall is providing false information on the application. Honesty is paramount in all sections of the form. Any false data can lead to denial of the permit, apart from being unethical.
Last but not least, overlooking the need for a Louisiana Trapping License number is a mistake. This detail is crucial for the application and must be included where indicated. Failing to do so can delay the processing of the application or result in its denial.
When applying for a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Permit in Louisiana, several other forms and documents are often necessary or beneficial to complement the application process. These materials not only provide additional information required by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries but also help to ensure compliance with state and federal laws related to wildlife control. The list below outlines common documents and forms associated with the NWCO permit application.
In summary, obtaining a NWCO permit involves more than just passing the test; it requires a comprehensive package of documentation ensuring that the operator is well-qualified, responsible, and prepared to undertake nuisance wildlife control in a manner that is safe, humane, and legal. By gathering these additional forms and documents, applicants can streamline their permitting process and establish a strong foundation for their nuisance wildlife control operations.
The Louisiana NWCO Permit Application form closely resembles a Professional License Application, which is used across various fields. Both documents require detailed personal information, evidence of qualifications, and a commitment to adhere to regulatory standards. Professional licenses, much like the NWCO permit, often mandate the completion of specific educational or training programs, adherence to laws and ethical standards, and sometimes passing a competency examination. Both types of forms serve as a gateway to practice within regulated fields, ensuring that applicants possess the necessary knowledge and skills to perform safely and responsibly.
Similar to a Job Application Form, the Louisiana NWCO Test form solicits personal details, educational background, and professional experience. However, while job applications generally evaluate suitability for employment, the NWCO form specifically assesses the applicant’s knowledge and readiness to handle wildlife management tasks. Both forms play critical roles in the selection process, ensuring that candidates meet the predefined criteria, but the NWCO form uniquely focuses on regulatory compliance and specialized skill sets essential for managing nuisance wildlife.
The NWCO Test form also shares similarities with a College Examination Paper, particularly in its structure and intent. Both documents contain a series of questions designed to test knowledge within a specific domain. Just as college exams evaluate a student's understanding of academic subjects, the NWCO test measures the applicant's grasp of wildlife management principles, regulations, and practices. Success in both instances is determined by achieving a score that meets or exceeds a predetermined threshold, demonstrating competency in the subject matter at hand.
The NWCO Permit Application has parallels with a Driver’s License Application, especially in its purpose and procedural requirements. Applicants must provide personal identification information, pass a written test (for the NWCO, this test covers wildlife management knowledge; for a driver's license, driving knowledge), and agree to follow specific rules and regulations. Additionally, both processes involve a background check and, upon passing these initial steps, grant the applicant a license or permit that confers the right to engage in activities (driving or nuisance wildlife control) that are regulated by state authorities.
Comparable to a Building Permit Application, the Louisiana NWCO Test form is required for regulatory compliance and to ensure public safety. Building permits ensure that construction projects adhere to zoning laws and building codes, while the NWCO permit confirms that individuals managing nuisance wildlife are knowledgeable and follow best practices. Both forms necessitate submitting detailed information and sometimes passing a review or test, emphasizing the importance of safety, legality, and community well-being in their respective activities.
The Louisiana NWCO Test form is akin to a Research Permit Application used by scientists conducting field studies in natural reserves or protected areas. Both types of applications require an understanding of specific regulations, a demonstration of competency through tests or proposals, and a strong commitment to ethical standards. While research permits focus on scientific investigation and its impacts, the NWCO permit addresses practical wildlife management. However, both are crucial for ensuring that the activities conducted are beneficial, or at least not harmful, to the environment and adhere to regulatory standards.
Finally, this form shares characteristics with a Firearms License Application, especially regarding the need for a background check, testing (in the case of the NWCO, knowledge of wildlife management and euthanasia methods; for firearms, handling and safety knowledge), and the legal authorization to perform activities that are otherwise restricted. Both require applicants to agree to abide by a set of rules and regulations, emphasizing responsible behavior and adherence to legal standards. While one permits the control of wildlife, the other allows the possession and use of firearms, both carrying significant responsibilities and potential risks to public safety.
Filling out the Louisiana Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Test form is a crucial step towards obtaining a permit to operate in wildlife control. It is essential to approach this process with care and attention to detail to ensure compliance and accuracy. The following list includes recommendations on what to do and what not to do when completing the form.
By following these guidelines, applicants can navigate the NWCO permit application process more smoothly and effectively.
Dispelling myths and misunderstandings about legal and regulatory documents is crucial to ensuring accurate compliance and setting realistic expectations. The Louisiana Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Permit Application is no exception, as it encompasses a set of specific requirements and procedures that can easily be misconstrued. Here are five common misconceptions about the Louisiana NWCO Test form, each followed by clarifications that aim to foster a better understanding:
While the test does include questions on prevention and control of wildlife damage, it encompasses a broader range of topics. Questions also cover wildlife biology and behavior, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) rules and regulations, and general wildlife knowledge. This comprehensive approach ensures operators have a well-rounded understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of nuisance wildlife control.
In reality, achieving a minimum score of 80% on the 75-question test is just one of several prerequisites. Applicants must also undergo a background check conducted by LDWF. Only upon passing this check will a permit be issued. This multi-step process underscores the importance of both knowledge and trustworthiness in the field of wildlife control.
Permit applicants are asked to specify which species they are willing to work with and the parishes they are willing to work in. This allows for a tailored approach, acknowledging that different areas and species may require specialized knowledge and handling techniques. It reflects the nuanced nature of wildlife control and the need for operators to have specific expertise.
The permit application explicitly lists approved and non-approved methods of euthanasia, reflecting a commitment to humane practices. For example, drowning is not an approved method for raccoons. Operators must adhere to ethical standards and regulations, ensuring that animal welfare is paramount in their control efforts.
The permit for which an operator applies may be suspended, canceled, or revoked at any time by the LDWF if the permittee fails to comply with state and federal laws, regulations, or permit conditions. This clause emphasizes the permit's nature as a privilege rather than a right, contingent upon the operator's ongoing adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Understanding these nuances surrounding the Louisiana NWCO Permit Application is essential for prospective operators. It ensures they are well-informed about the responsibilities, limitations, and expectations that come with becoming a certified nuisance wildlife control operator in Louisiana.
Filling out and using the Louisiana Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) Test form is essential for becoming a licensed NWCO in the state. There are several key takeaways to ensure the process is completed correctly and efficiently:
Understanding these key aspects of the Louisiana NWCO Test form and permit application process is vital for anyone looking to become a qualified and responsible Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator within the state.
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