A new program rewarding people who turn in poachers aims to crack down on illegal wildlife harvest. 

“Despite our constant efforts, it is not possible for our officers to apprehend all violators on their own,” said Lt. B.J. Meyer of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s law enforcement division. “We need the guidance and support of the public to be most effective, so we rely on our citizens to assist in the reduction of wildlife crimes.”

Rewards from the Turn-in-Poachers program, or TIP, range from $100 to $1,000 depending on the severity of the crime and fines assessed by the court. All tips will remain anonymous, but the  Wildlife Commission must receive names and contact information to provide an award. 

The program was developed in partnership with the N.C. Bowhunters Association through a state law that established the Wildlife Poacher Reward Fund. The fund receives 10 percent of replacement and investigative costs from wildlife cases, as well as money from the restoration fees convicted wildlife violators are required to pay. 

Submit tips:

• Online at www.tipsubmit.com/webtipforms/webform.aspx?id=127&AgencyID=1304.

• Using the free smartphone app TipSoft.

• By texting 274637. Start the message with WILDTIP and include your name to be eligible for an award. 

• By calling 1-855-WILDTIP.

Report wildlife violations other than poaching to 1.800.662.7137.