MDC assigns veteran agent to Caldwell County

Hamilton, Mo. – Conservation Agent Sean Ernst brings experience in the outdoors and community involvement to his recent assignment in Caldwell County. Ernst joined the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) as an agent in 2003 and has served in two other counties. He resides in Hamilton.

“I am very excited about my new community and the opportunity to help the folks of Caldwell County with anything they need, from wildlife nuisance issues to the illegal harvest of fish and wildlife,” Ernst said. “I look forward to getting involved in the community and visiting the schools to teach our young people about the merits of conservation and the wonders of Missouri’s fish, forest, and wildlife resources.”

Ernst graduated from the University of Missouri in 2002 with a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Management. After graduation, he worked for MDC’s Wildlife Division as a part-time employee.  He graduated from the Conservation Agent Academy in 2003, and after graduation he served seven years as the agent in Camden County. Ernst became active in the community, including working with a local National Wild Turkey Federation chapter and helping to start a new Quail Forever chapter. He assisted with an annual youth turkey hunting clinic, coordinated youth fishing and hunting events, and penned a weekly newspaper column called “Ask the Agent.” In 2009, Ernst was named the Central Region’s Hunter Education Agent Instructor of the Year.

In 2010, Ernst transferred to Boone County.  He took the opportunity to give back to his alma mater by joining the School of Natural Resources’ Alumni Advisory Board. He also spoke regularly to undergraduate student classes and assisted with youth outdoor events.

In 2013, Ernst enlisted in the Missouri National Guard. He attended basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and was trained as a combat engineer.  He is currently a first lieutenant, assigned to the 203rd Engineer Battalion. 

Ernst can be reached at 816-262-3507.