Ep 4. Mutilated Fish and Classroom Salmon

In season 10 episode 4 of Wardens, titled "Mutilated Fish and Classroom Salmon", viewers follow the experiences of natural resource wardens as they work in the state of Maine. The episode showcases the demanding yet fascinating work of the wardens as they enforce fishing regulations in numerous bodies of water throughout the state.

The episode begins with wardens receiving a report of illegal fishing on a remote stream, situated deep in the Maine wilderness. Wardens are shown trekking through dense forests and streams to reach the location of the illegal fishing. Later, they end up detaining the suspects in what ended up being a major bust.

The program then shifts its focus to the biennial electro-shocking survey. It is a process where researchers stun fish and conduct research to understand the health of their populations. The process gives the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife invaluable information to help manage fish populations and balance natural ecosystems. Wardens accompany researchers and biologists as they travel to various bodies of water in the state to conduct the process.

Next, wardens are shown investigating an individual who has been unlawfully harvesting juvenile fish and crustaceans from the coast. The process of harvesting juveniles is illegal since it disrupts the state's marine ecosystem. The wardens discover that the individual is harvesting crabs and fish not only for himself but also for the local restaurants. In an effort to get to the bottom of the case, the wardens work to determine where the poaching takes place and how widespread the issue is.

The next segment follows the wardens making their journey south to Portland, Maine to continue their investigation into the illegal harvesting of juvenile marine life. The wardens work with local authorities to conduct a sting operation, which concludes with arrests and confessions. This event is a turning point in the investigation, with further developments expected to be announced soon.

Lastly, the show covers a unique partnership between the wardens and a nearby high school. The high school has a salmon-raising program that helps students learn about environmental awareness and the conservation efforts of fisheries in the state of Maine. The wardens assist the students in the program by returning salmon fingerlings to the Highlands of Maine. The salmon species had previously vanished from the environment, but through conservation programs such as these, the species has made an appearance in recent years.

Overall, the "Mutilated Fish and Classroom Salmon" episode in season 10 of Wardens engages its viewers with its unique insight into the challenging job of Maine’s natural resource wardens. The episode emphasizes the vital role that these individuals play in conserving and managing the natural resources that support the state’s ecosystem and economy.