Depends on what years you are thinking.

From 1909 until 2008 Park Wardens were a multi-functional service. The website

www.parkwardens.com spells out many of the duties fulfilled by wardens in modern times.

Ironically, the government supported site played down the law enforcement responsibilities of the federal peace officers. After years of court battles, Parks Canada conceded that Park Wardens did indeed do law enforcement and were at risk. Park Wardens were to be armed, but they were to be part of a new government wing. Park Wardens now report to a new section in Parks Canada. They will also now ONLY perform Law Enforcement duties.

After 99 years of a multifunctional role, on year 100 - wardens now only do law enforcement.

In 2008 approximately 450 wardens patrolled and protected our national parks. In 2009 there will be 100. The remainder (yet to be named) have been tasked to the remaining roles you can find on the web site.

What makes a good warden?

Both Hindles emphasize that wardens must be adaptable and comfortable in a variety of roles. They need to be able to perform individually or as part of a team, says Murray. "A warden must be able to step up to the plate." They also need a good supply of common sense, which, adds Murray, "is not that common."

Memorable moments

"One of the nice things in a warden's life," says Murray, is the memories, "lots and lots of memories." Over the years he has climbed Canada's highest mountain (Mount Logan) and helped in several mountain climbing and avalanche rescues.

A scuba-diving instructor, he has dived in parks on the Atlantic and the Pacific coasts. He also trains other wardens in law enforcement techniques, and he helped convict one of the country's most notorious poachers.

As Melanie grew up, family outings in Jasper were big events for the Hindles. Melanie's childhood memories include overnight horseback trips, some up to ten days long, as she accompanied her dad on his rounds. Other wardens would stop by her dad's warden station, which at different times served as a drop-off point for a stranded moose calf and some orphaned ducklings.

So much to learn

Back in 1972 when Murray started his career, he was given three horses and sent into the back country. In those days, each warden had a district to patrol within the park. A standard shift was 24 days on, and 4 days off.

Self-sufficiency was the key; this was "an opportunity to learn by yourself."

Though it's still important to be a jack of all trades, today's wardens tend to be more specialized. Some are experts in wildlife biology while others specialize in botany or range management. Murray believes the specialization is a good thing; wardens are increasingly professional. Nowadays there is "too much to learn to be a generalist," he says.

Melanie has learned a lot from her dad but these days, he is learning from her, too. "She has a strong focus and a passion for Parks Canada that rubs off on me," says Murray.