Outdoor Report Text

MONTANA FISH, WILDLIFE & PARKS_____ OUTDOOR REPORT CLOSED CAPTION TEXT “Warden Balance (Kqyn Kuka)”

November 24, 2011

Mike Gurnett: The work of a Montana Game Warden is diverse, demanding and can be darn-right dangerous.

Mike Gurnett: (On Camera) Most of us have a hard time leaving our work behind at the end of the day, but for those who have taken an oath the responsibility stays with them 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Kqyn Kuka: You’re always constantly thinking about, especially if its an

Kqyn Kuka: (On Camera) ongoing investigation you’re wondering how did this happen? What am I missing? So you’re never really off the clock. It stays with you.

Kqyn Kuka: Some of my earliest memories are on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. My Dad was an enrolled Blackfeet member. He also taught art in the schools up there. He always encouraged us, do what you what to do. Get your degree in something, but don’t ever forget your artwork and don’t ever forget your roots.

Kqyn Kuka: Artwork became a huge thing for me. I create this image in my head but how you get it out of metal is a lot more difficult. Being a game warden, I can be driving around through the most beautiful country you have ever seen or checking people that are so kind and I instantly think, how can I freeze this moment and I capture the goodness of that day. It takes away from everything that’s going on when I’m working on it.

Mike Gurnett: Choosing a life in law enforcement is really choosing a lifestyle. One that carries with it danger, stress and potential for burnout and somewhere between the art and the oath Montana Game Warden Kqyn Kuka is finding a balance. This is Mike Gurnett, out among Montana’s fish, wildlife and parks.