Rural policing refers to law enforcement activities that take place in less populated areas, often characterized by open spaces and small communities. Officers in these regions typically handle a wide range of issues, from traffic violations to community disputes, and often build close relationships with residents. Due to the lower population density, rural police departments may have fewer resources and personnel compared to urban counterparts. This can lead to unique challenges, such as longer response times and the need for officers to be versatile in their skills, addressing everything from wildlife encounters to drug-related crimes.