GAINESVILLE, Ga. (AP) — The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is proposing to create a new law enforcement division, separating it from its Wildlife Resources division.

DNR Deputy Commissioner Homer Bryson said the move is aimed at reorganizing the department's personnel to eliminate duplication and become more efficient.

The board is expected to consider the plan during its June 25 meeting at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro.

The Times of Gainesville reports (http://bit.ly/132Bwrd) that the public has a chance to comment on the proposed change, including at a public hearing set for Tuesday at DNR offices in Atlanta and through verbal and written means by June 18.

If approved, the proposal would take effect July 1 but be phased in over five years.