(1) For purposes of this regulation, the term "agriculture officer" means any individual appointed by the state director of agriculture to enforce those laws relating to the department of agriculture.

(2) As a precondition of any exercise of enforcement authority, an agriculture officer must successfully complete training which will include, but is not limited to:

(a) Crime scene investigation;

(b) Criminal investigation;

(c) Effective interviewing and interrogation;

(d) Report writing;

(e) Criminal law to include Titles 9A and 20;

(f) Officer safety;

(g) Defensive tactics.

(3) As a precondition of any authorization to carry a firearm during the performance of duties, an agriculture officer with enforcement authority will have successfully qualified in the firearms course which is incorporated by the basic law enforcement academy program of the commission, or is otherwise approved by the commission. Following the initial qualification, the department of agriculture must insure that such qualification be effected annually or within a period of twelve months preceding the aforementioned firearms authorization.

(4) It is the responsibility of the state director of agriculture to effect and ensure personnel compliance and to provide necessary records and information upon the request of the commission, to which said director is accountable for purposes of such compliance. Additionally, any equivalency process or official recognition of equivalent training or experience in determining an agriculture officer's compliance will be within the prerogative and authorities of such director.