Minnesota Department of Natural Resources



Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Division of Enforcement

15011 Highway 115 (Camp Ripley)

Little Falls, MN 56345-4173

For Immediate Release

Contact: Rich Sprouse

Public Information Officer

800-366-8917, Ext 2511

CONSERVATION OFFICER WEEKLY REPORT

11-30-08

District 1 - Baudette area

CO Troy Richards (Roseau) followed up on complaints that occurred during firearms deer season. Richards spoke with two parties that successfully filled their cow elk tags with two mature animals from the Grygla herd. Richards monitored trapping activity and spoke with trappers awaiting the fisher and bobcat opener.

CO Ben Huener (Karlstad) spent the first part of the week preparing for the muzzleloader season with baited stands and deer stands on WMAs. Thursday morning was spent investigating the first of two elk poached from one of elk herds in Kittson County. Saturday saw a few muzzleloader hunters and the second elk, a bull, which was also shot and left to lay. Anyone with information on the elk that were shot and left are urged to call Turn In Poachers at 1-800-652-9093. Callers may remain anonymous. Anglers were checked on Lake Bronson and an injured eagle was rescued.

CO Larry Milbridge (Warroad) checked trapping activity and conducted follow up on investigations from the firearms deer season.

CO Jeff Birchem (Baudette) continued to investigate deer hunting violations involving both juveniles and adults. Complaints of illegal trapping are also being investigated.

CO Jeremy Woinarowicz (Thief River Falls) worked the muzzleloader deer opener with Lt. Znajda in the Marshall County area. Hunter numbers appear to be down from last year, but those in the field enjoyed seasonably warm weather. Equipment maintenance was performed and calls of injured raptors, deer baiting, and recreational trespass were handled. Enforcement action for the week included driving after cancellation and license violations.

CO Brice Vollbrecht (Blackduck) worked ATV and fishing enforcement during the week. Anglers are starting to fish the area lakes with limited success. The opening weekend of muzzleloader hunting was quiet, with very few deer being harvested. A court trial was attended in Houston County and follow up was conducted on a deer feeding complaint in the no feed zone. Enforcement action during the week included angling without license in possession and fail to display registration.

CO Robert Gorecki (Baudette) completed investigations on deer hunting cases and angling complaints. Ice on Red Lake continues to improve with some anglers venturing out. Anglers are reminded to be cautious when going out onto new ice. Charges are pending on an individual after CO Gorecki received a TIP call that someone was in possession of a Bald Eagle.

Warroad #2 - vacant.

District 2 - Bemidji area

CO Stuart Bensen (Erskine) reports a few anglers and spearers have taken to the ice. Ice thickness varies, so caution is urged when venturing onto the ice, and no vehicle traffic is recommended. The Muzzleloader Deer Season started slowly. Standing corn may be hampering the deer harvest.

CO Dan Malinowski (Fosston) conducted a site inspection of a wetland alteration site. A party spot in a Wildlife Management Area was checked for activity. A call on an injured pelican was received. Shelters and ATVs have been seen on the ice of area lakes.

CO Tim Gray (Bagley) checked trappers and muzzleloader deer hunters. Few MZ deer hunters were observed in the field.

CO Chris Vinton (Perham) received a call of an injured owl. The bird died before the officer could pick it up. Informational calls about the MZ deer season, angling, fish house licensing, and registering wheel type fish houses with Department of Public Safety were answered. Some anglers are on the ice. Some lakes still have open water. Be Careful!

CO Phil Seefeldt (Moorhead) observed a fair number of muzzleloader deer hunters in the field. Hunters are reporting seeing fewer deer. Anglers are venturing onto the ice. Many report 3”-6” where there is ice. Some lakes remain open. Complaints of illegally taken deer during the regular firearm deer season continue to be investigated.

CO Joe Stattelman (Detroit Lakes) focused enforcement efforts on deer hunting activity. Muzzleloader deer hunters were checked, complaints from the past deer season were investigated, complaints of deer carcasses being dumped were checked, and deer baiting sites checked for activity. Anglers are venturing onto the ice of many lakes. There is open water on some lakes. Caution is urged if venturing onto the ice. Equipment maintenance and administrative duties were completed.

CO Al Peterson (Osage) checked muzzleloader deer hunters and trappers pursuing fisher and bobcat. Angling and spearing activity increased over the weekend. Complaints of over limits, borrowing/lending a license, and hunting without a license were investigated.

CO Gary Forsberg (Pelican Rapids) reports a slow start to the muzzleloader deer season. Anglers are venturing onto the ice of many lakes. Some ATVs were seen on smaller lakes. Canada goose hunters in the Fergus Falls area continue to do well. Complaints of deer carcasses dumped in the road ditch, stands left in WMAs, hunters too close to buildings, and untagged traps were investigated. The officer spoke to a Snowmobile Safety Class regarding laws, safety, and riding ethics.

District 3 - Fergus Falls area

CO Tricia Plautz (Henning) responded to a call of an injured deer on the ice. With the help of a local neighbor an unsure ice conditions, the deer was pulled to shore. Plautz also responded to complaints of carcasses dumped and several muzzleloader questions.

CO Paul Nelson (Elbow Lake) worked the opening of the muzzleloader deer season and answered questions about the upcoming ice fishing season. He also met with snowmobile safety instructors in the area to set up this year’s class. Ice conditions in the area not safe. Ice varies from no ice to six inches; extreme caution is advised when going out on the ice.

CO Shane Osborne (Evansville) centered on the muzzleloader deer season and numerous questions associated with the hunt. CO Osborne also researched laws and regulations and continued to work on investigations from the firearms deer season.

CO Mike Shelden (Alexandria) participated in a multi-high school career fair at the Radisson Arrowwood Center in Alexandria in which 675 high school juniors from around the area attended. Shelden did presentations during the day for those interested in a career as a Minnesota Conservation Officer. Other work included checking ice conditions on area lakes, checking waterfowl hunters and some muzzleloader deer hunters. Officer Shelden issued a ticket for litter to an individual who dumped two complete deer carcasses on the Lake Christina public access with the tags attached. He said he thought he was just “Doing the coyote’s a favor” by leaving the carcasses there for them to eat.

CO Jeff Johanson (Osakis) worked deer hunters over the muzzleloader opening weekend finding quite a few hunters out. Additional time was spent checking waterfowl, pheasant, and archery deer hunters, and complaints were received and investigated regarding possible WMA violations. Ice angling/spearing activity is starting to pick up as the ice thickens, however ice conditions vary greatly depending on the body of water you are on.

CO Daniel Baumbarger (Wheaton) checked trappers, pheasant hunters, goose hunters, and muzzleloader deer hunters. CO Baumbarger worked with CO Anderson on a complaint area this past weekend. Time was also spent checking fishermen and investigating shining complaints. Fishermen are cautioned to check ice conditions before venturing out on area lakes. Enforcement action was taken for transporting a loaded firearm, and insufficient amount of blaze orange.

CO Tony Anderson (Morris) reports muzzleloader deer season opener was pretty slow. Most hunters report seeing nothing or one deer. The pheasant hunters well out numbered the deer hunters. Pheasant hunters are only finding an educated bird or two. Almost every group of pheasant hunters had to be reminded about wearing more blaze orange during the muzzleloader deer season. CO Anderson finds only a few very large groups of Canada geese left in the area. Goose hunters are having a very hard time getting these late season birds to decoy. CO Anderson fielded calls about deer license questions and antlerless permit questions.

Fergus Falls - vacant.

District 4 - Wadena area

CO Paul Parthun (Lake George) reports more and more anglers are venturing out on area lakes. Officer Parthun received complaints regarding dogs chasing deer, dumping of deer carcasses, and collisions with deer. CO Parthun also continued to investigate several big game cases from the firearms deer season.

CO Sam Hunter (Park Rapids) checked muzzleloader hunters and fishermen during the past week. Officer Hunter still continue to receive complaints of trespass and archery hunters are reminded to wear blaze orange while hunting during the muzzleloader season.

CO Gary Sommers (Walker) focused on big and small game hunting and sport fishing activity. In addition, Officer Sommers prepared equipment for storage and observed ice anglers on Leech Lake at the same time there were people angling from a boat, both in close proximity to each other. Officer Sommers reports that this was the quietest weekend since the heavy spring snowfalls that occurred in April, especially considering it was opening weekend for muzzleloader and fisher and bobcat season. Walkable ice is present on numerous lakes for ice fishing, and it was the last weekend for duck hunting and musky angling. There were very few people out participating in outdoor activities.

CO Mark Mathy (Cass Lake) began checking ice fishermen and spearing activity. Ice thickness was variable depending on the lake. Caution is advised as many areas still have very thin ice.

CO Duke Broughten (Longville) followed up on complaints from firearms deer season and focused on the opening of muzzleloader. Local deer registration stations claim registrations are down 5 to 7 percent. Hunters reported opening weekend of muzzleloader deer hunting yielded low success. CO Broughten reports ice fishing is underway and some lakes in the Longville area are reported to have five to eight inches of ice. Anglers are still advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling on the ice. Enforcement action was taken on operating an ATV on roadway, no deer license in possession, and littering.

CO Jeff Halverson (Staples) worked muzzleloader deer season opener and investigated follow up complaints from deer season. Officer Halverson also worked early ice fishermen. Anglers have had some success with crappies, sunfish and walleyes. Contacts were made for uncased gun and unregistered ATVs.

CO Colleen Adam (OHV Recreation Officer – Park Rapids) checked trappers, as well as grouse and muzzleloader hunters on the weekend. Officer Adam reports shelters are beginning to appear on smaller lakes and ice anglers are hoping for better ice conditions barring another Dec. 1 foot of snow. CO Adam also attended an OHV signing meeting.

District 5 - Eveleth area

CO Darrin Kittelson (International Falls)) reports the opening of muzzleloader season bringing a fair amount of hunters out into the field, along with the fisher and pine marten trappers. Numerous animal complaints were also handled. Enforcement action was taken for ATV violations and some follow up from regular deer season issues.

CO Lloyd Steen (Ray/Kabetogama) finished up court related cases from the rifle deer season. Patrolled checking muzzleloader deer hunters, marten and fisher trappers, and a few brave souls venturing onto the ice to spear northerns.

CO Troy Fondie (Orr) reports working on equipment storage, returning phone calls on a variety of outdoor topics, and lastly monitoring outdoor recreational activities over the week.

CO Brad Schultz (Cook) reports following up on some post firearm deer hunting issues and investigating a complaint of dumped deer parts and a possible hunter harassment complaint. Ice fishing is just getting started with a few people walking on area lakes. Five or so inches of ice is reported on some of the bays of Lake Vermilion.

CO Don Bozovsky (Hibbing) worked the deer muzzleloader and fisher/marten/bobcat openers and found fewer folks than usual out and about in the woods. Follow up was conducted on violations from the deer rifle season.

CO Matt Frericks (Virginia) began working trapping activity in the Virginia area. Reports of dogs chasing deer were taken and are being investigated. A TIP call was taken concerning a person archery hunting deer over bait. Average ice thickness on Virginia area lakes appears to be around 4-5 inches.

CO Mark Fredin (Aurora) has been receiving numerous calls from an individual who claims a large black cat has followed her around her farm and she often sees green eyes when she shines her flashlight out into the woods. An Eveleth Wildlife official and myself went to her farm and looked the area over for tracks within the snow and nothing unusual was found. Prior to leaving, Officer Fredin looked through his binoculars out into the woods and the homeowner then pulled out a pair of her binoculars and stated hers are really strong, she can see UFOs at night. Trapping activity was also monitored and ice fishing as begun.

I. Falls # 2 - vacant.

District 6 - Two Harbors area

CO Darin Fagerman (Grand Marais) reports a quiet week between firearms deer season and muzzleloader season. With the pine marten-fisher season opening, trappers are reminded to review the new laws designed to protect the lynx. The CO answered several questions about the muzzleloader and trapping seasons during the week. The opening of the winter trout season is January 15th for both the BWCA and outside the BWCA seasons. There are no longer two different opening dates for the two as shown in the fishing synopsis. The change was made after the printing. Please pass this on to your trout fishing buddies.

CO John Velsvaag (Ely) followed up on deer season complaints as well as some trapping complaints this past week. CO Velsvaag received several calls about the muzzleloader season as well as calls on ice conditions. Several ATVs and snowmobiles are out on area lakes even though conditions are marginal at best.

CO Tom Wahlstrom (Tofte) continued to investigate complaints from the firearm deer season. Wahlstrom monitored trapping activity in the area and performed equipment maintenance. The Officer reminds anglers about the danger of thin ice as they start off their ice fishing season.

CO Dan Thomasen (Two Harbors) followed up on several deer hunting issues that remained after the close of season. CO Thomasen enjoyed a brief break with family over the Thanksgiving Holiday before getting busy again with fisher and pine marten trapping season. Lakes continue to make ice and anglers are taking advantage of a decent early ice bite. Anglers are reminded to be cautious when venturing out on lakes as not all lakes have enough ice to support their weight. Be sure to take a PFD, ice picks and a friend or let someone know where you will be, especially on remote lakes.

CO Mary Manning (Hovland) worked trappers and small game hunters. She also answered questions from several individuals interested in trapping and muzzleloader hunting this fall. All trappers are advised to re-read the new regulations designed to help prevent accidental take of lynx. CO Manning finished winterizing boats and began prepping winter equipment. Calls are already coming in from folks looking for snow for sledding; they are disappointed to learn it has not arrived. Officer Manning also helped organize and teach snowmobile safety classes in Grand Marais.

CO Marty Stage (Ely) worked deer hunters and trapping activity. Some fishing activity is occurring, but ice is still new and thin, so most people are playing it safe. Stage dealt with a large buck that was shot from the road and the head cut off. This kind of activity is very disturbing. This occurred in the Babbitt area and if anyone has any information, Stage would sure like to hear about it. TIP calls (1-800-652-9093) are anonymous and rewards are paid.

Silver Bay - vacant.

District 7 - Grand Rapids area

CO Jon Paurus (Hill City) checked spearing and ice fishing activity on area lakes. Ice conditions varied considerably but several anglers were finding fish. Enforcement action taken for no fishing license in possession.

CO Jeff Koehn (Grand Rapids - OHV Specialist) patrolled for OHV activity. Numerous deer hunters were using ATV’s to access hunting areas. He processed evidence and paperwork associated with fish and game violations. Reports of deer carcasses and garbage littered onto state lands were investigated with enforcement action taken.

CO Gary Lefebvre (Pengilly) worked fishermen, ATVs, small game and muzzle loader deer hunters. He also worked trappers and handled several complaints during the week.

CO Thomas Sutherland (Grand Rapids) worked ice fishing activity with some of the small lakes being frozen enough to give access to fishermen by foot. Some crappies and bluegills are being caught. The larger, deeper lakes are still open in some areas and won’t be ready for foot travel until more adequate cold weather arrives. Work was done with a trespass call from the end of deer season where two individuals fired at a deer in a private agricultural field. Enforcement action was also taken for an individual who had shot a turkey off of a county road. Remember, even animals that are captive and then are released are considered wild animals once they leave captivity. This goes for pheasants, turkeys, deer and other animals.

CO Sarah Sindelir (Grand Rapids) spent time checking ice conditions on area lakes this past week. Most of the local lakes, besides Moose, Trout, and Sugar, have sufficient ice to support some fish shelters and anglers. Be sure to take an ice chisel with you to check the ice when you go out in the next weeks. A few people were out angling this past weekend with little success, but it is still early yet. Enforcement action was taken for license violations.

CO Mike Fairbanks (Deer River) worked trapping enforcement, checked ice anglers and responded to litter complaints. The panfish bite was good for those who dared to venture out on the 2-3 inches of ice. Enforcement action was taken for no license in possession, no ID on fish house and various trapping violations.

District 8 - Cloquet area

CO Randy Hanzal (Duluth) reports lots of limits of crappies being had by the early season ice-anglers. Three to five inches of ice reported on most area lakes however there are also some areas of open water to watch out for. Several unfinished cases from the firearms deer season were completed during the week. A few muzzleloader hunters were encountered as that season began recently. New trapping regulations took effect during the opening of Pine Marten/Fisher season in the newly established Lynx Zone.

CO Jeff Humphrey (Kettle River) reports work continued on deer season follow up. Several complaints of deer baiting and carcass dumping came in after the close of the season. Muzzleloader Deer Season opened this past weekend. Hunters reported few deer seen and harvested. Early ice anglers are venturing out on area lakes. Persons are advised to use caution.

CO Andy Schmidt (Brookston) continued investigations from the deer season and answered questions for the muzzleloading season. Majority of complaints were regarding dumping of deer carcasses in ditches, forest roads, and private property. Hunters in the area reported little success for the general firearms deer season.

CO Scott Staples (Carlton) worked the special muzzleloader hunt at Jay Cooke State Park. Success was way down this year with only about 10 percent of the hunters being successful on opening day. There was a fair amount of trapping activity on the opening of Fisher, Pine Marten, and Bobcat season. Enforcement action was taken on trappers for not wearing blaze orange and trapping without a small game license. Blaze orange is required during open rifle seasons. With the muzzleloader season open, they are required to wear blaze orange unless they are on the water. Also, dog owners are reminded to keep your dogs on leashes or tied up. Almost every year dogs are killed in traps.

Marine Unit

CO Troy Ter Meer (Marine Unit) assisted with a muzzleloader deer hunt at Jay Cooke State Park. He also checked ice anglers on the St. Louis River and area lakes. Seeing mostly foot traffic, but some ATVs use on the lakes. Use caution when using ATVs on the ice early in the season, check ice thickness often.

CO Matt Miller (Marine Unit) checked anglers and muzzleloader season hunters at Jay Cooke State Park. Ice fishing is getting underway with 4-7 inches of ice on many area lakes. Anglers are reminded to still be cautious, especially on ATVs, as many area lakes are supplied by springs that make for uneven ice. A life jacket and ice picks are good items to keep with you this time of year. Enforcement action was taken for various dumping, angling, and ATV violations.

CO Keith Olson (Marine Unit) followed up on some late deer season items. Equipment maintenance items tended to. Deer carcass complaints continue to be received on private property. The newly formed ice has many venturing out for early crappie fishing. Use caution when heading out on the ice.

District 9 - Brainerd area

CO Brent Speldrich (McGregor) continued working on cases from deer season. He is following up on firearms deer hunters who shot and killed antlerless deer in the lottery permit area. He mailed out road-kill permits, completed an investigation on shooting from the roadway and responded to several calls from the public.

CO Bob Mlynar (Aitkin) found that ice fishing and spearing is under way as people are walking and driving ATVs on most lakes in the area. Trapping and muzzleloader hunters were also worked during the week.

CO Tim Collette (Cuyuna Rec) checked trappers and anglers. Ice anglers found anywhere from a few inches to 5+ inches of ice and many have started walking out on area lakes. The muzzleloader deer season started out slow. The officer also spent some time working with the new Longville officer.

CO Cary Shoutz (Cross Lake) reports muzzleloader hunters are off to a slow start with few deer registered. Shoutz responded to a trespass complaint, investigated a tip call on a hunter with no license and checked trapping activity through out the Emily area.

CO Nikki Shoutz (Pine River) picked up an incidental fisher caught in a fox set before season opener on Saturday. A reminder that traps that are set and not capable of drowning the animal must be tended at least once a day - except for body gripping or conibear traps. Traps cannot be left unattended for more than three consecutive days. Officer Shoutz followed up on firearms deer season cases and checked muzzleloader deer hunters. A reminder that if you purchase a muzzleloader license on or after a season starts, your license is not valid until the 2nd day after the day it is issued. For example, if you bought your muzzleloader license after shooting hours on Saturday, it is not valid until Monday. She found ice fishermen venturing out and enjoying success on area lakes. One reported vehicle fell through close to shore on an area lake.

CO Karl Hadrits (Crosby) follow up work was done on several deer season cases, with gross misdemeanor charges filed on two ongoing investigations. Processed deer meat was seized in a case where an individual confessed to shooting a doe in a lottery area without a doe permit. A case of pre-season fisher trapping is also under investigation.

CO Chad Sherack (Pequot Lakes) checked deer hunters, waterfowl hunters, and followed up on several TIPs and complaints. Officer Sherack also worked with CO Heyn checking waterfowl hunters and deer hunters in SE Minnesota. Officers found minimal waterfowl hunters over the weekend with little success. Officers found most areas were frozen over with colder weather. Officer Sherack also continues follow up on wanton waste tips where the suspects dumped several deer with only antlers removed or back straps.

CO Jim Guida (Brainerd) continued an investigation relating to big game offenses. Officer Guida heard numerous reports from area hunters commenting on both the observation of deer, and opportunities to shoot deer being limited. Numerous compliments were given to area DNR Wildlife staff for the accurate assessment of the area deer populations. Some area hunters have been out hunting big game with muzzleloaders. A complaint was taken regarding shooting waterfowl near buildings within the Brainerd city limits. Waterfowl hunters are reminded to shoot in a safe direction when hunting from within emergent vegetation or narrow streams in public waters.

District 10 - Mille Lacs area

CO Scott Fitzgerald (Malmo) reports working on investigations from the firearms rifle season. Several parties were checked ice fishing on area lakes. He reminds anglers that ice this time of year can be dangerous as the ice is not always frozen consistently, so please be careful if you venture out to area lakes. CO Fitzgerald checked muzzleloader deer hunters during the weekend opener. He also found small game hunters trying to get some late season grouse. Summer equipment was also winterized and stored.

CO Bret Grundmeier (Hinckley) checked the first ice anglers of the season along with some trappers and muzzleloader hunters. A few sunfish and crappies are biting. Some of the smaller, shallower lakes in the area have four to six inches of ice. Ice is pretty thin on other lakes and extreme caution needs to be taken when on the ice right now.

CO Gregory Verkuilen (Garrison) followed up on deer cases and worked on equipment maintenance. The reports are rolling in regarding those who can’t be bothered to find somewhere better to dump deer parts past the public road ditch.

CO Luke Croatt (Wealthwood) worked on investigations from firearms season. Several fishermen have called asking about ice conditions on surrounding lakes. Conditions vary from lake to lake and extreme caution is advised. Croatt also checked trapping activity and issued a car kill permit.

CO Dustie Heaton (Willow River) followed up on investigations from firearms deer season. She handled prohibited burning complaints, deer carcass dumping complaints and solid waste disposal complaints. She also checked muzzleloader hunters and trappers over the weekend.

CO Mike Lee (Isle) completed winterization on equipment this past week and followed up on cases from the deer season. Officer Lee assisted the Isle Police Department with evacuations and other assistance related to a large industrial fire, and possible release of chemicals. Officer Lee also checked muzzleloader hunters, but numbers of hunters were down along with their success rates. Officer Lee reports that Mille Lacs Lake is building ice and there are a few out fishing in the bays, but ice safety is very important.

CO Eugene Wynn (Pine City) received calls of dumped deer carcasses, trespassing, and ATV complaints. Deer carcass dumping is a problem each and every year. Hunters are reminded that if any identification is found with the carcasses or hides, there will be enforcement action taken. You can simply skin your deer, drop the hide at a Hides for Habitat box, and then cut up the carcass, place it into trash bags, and have it taken out with the trash. Deer carcasses discarded along roads, ditches, bridges, and streams makes the everyday hunter look bad in the eyes of the rest of the public.

CO Dan Perron (Onamia) reports that ice fishing and spearing are starting to really crank up on Mille Lacs and Shakopee Lakes. He reminds anglers to check ice conditions before heading out. He also checked some muzzleloader hunters in the area but didn't see many deer taken.

District 11 - Albany area

CO Robert Haberman (Little Falls) checked ice fishermen over the week. Fishing is reported slow. Many anglers are still not getting around, due to spotty ice conditions. CO Haberman also checked black powder hunters over the weekend. Bait and shining complaints are still being reported in the area.

CO Paul Kuske (Pierz) checked ice fishermen on area lakes. Ice conditions continue to improve. CO Kuske handled calls relating to nuisance animals, trespass issues, and follow-up investigations from deer season.

CO Keith Bertram (Sauk Centre) spent most of the week checking hunters and ice fishermen. Ice conditions still vary greatly from open water to about five inches. Pheasant hunters seem to be having better luck now that most of the corn is out.

CO Todd VanderWeyst (Paynesville) worked waterfowl hunters. With numerous geese in the area hunters are getting chances on the open water areas still on Lake Koronis. The officer observed a few spear fishermen out. Enforcement action taken for shooting waterfowl after hours.

CO Chad Thesing (Albany) conducted investigations on deer cases, checked anglers, pheasant hunters and muzzleloaders. Area ice conditions improved a bit with most lakes that are frozen having 4-6 inches of ice. Some lakes have little or no ice. The nice weekend weather helped some hunters to be successful in their game. Enforcement action for the week included, no blaze orange, hunt pheasant with no license, and no deer license in possession.

CO Mike Martin (St Cloud) worked on a bow hunting over bait case and several trapping issues. Anglers are cautioned to use care and common sense when venturing out on ice.

CO Brian Mies (Annandale) checked anglers in Wright County. Officer Mies worked on deer cases. Officer Mies worked on tip calls and checked trappers.

CO Rhonda Keniston (Long Prairie) checked anglers and hunters. Anglers were antsy to get on the ice. Ice conditions vary from open water to 6” of ice. Anglers need to check ice often, since it can be very inconsistent. More pheasant hunters were out than previously. Overall, muzzleloader hunters voiced disappointment over lack of deer seen.

District 12 - St. Cloud area

CO Rick Reller (Buffalo) mainly checked deer hunters and waterfowl hunters last week. The Mississippi River was busy with waterfowl hunters but success was very limited on waterfowl in the bag. Enforcement action was taken for hunting on SNA, waterfowl hunt with toxic shot, and transport loaded and uncased firearm in a motorboat.

CO David Schottenbauer (Princeton) worked a busy muzzleloader opener this past weekend. CO Schottenbauer checked ice anglers on some of the smaller lakes in the area, ice is not very good, but some are still trying to get out there. Time was also spent checking many small game hunters in the area.

CO Tony Musatov (Sauk Rapids) checked waterfowl hunters and muzzleloader deer hunters. Complaints of trespass and shooting within 500 feet of a house were investigated. Equipment maintenance was completed.

CO Mitch Sladek (Big Lake) worked waterfowl hunters on the Mississippi River and issued summonses and written warnings for possession of toxic shot, hunting on a SNA, Unsigned federal duck stamp and no HIP certification. He followed up on a trespassing complaint. He checked a number of muzzleloader hunters.

CO Brandon McGaw (Mora) advised that the small game hunters took to the field with the close of deer season. Hunters were shooting some grouse and pheasants. Area cornfields are being picked and it is pushing more pheasants into the fringe cover. Warmer weather has also developed some small openings in area lakes and few are going onto the ice. Geese area still in the area but the duck migration has mainly past.

CO Brian Dobbick (Cambridge) worked area muzzleloader, goose and pheasant hunters the past week. Quite a few pheasant hunters were seen in the field with most reporting spotty success. Ice anglers ventured out on many area lakes and are reminded to use caution if going out on the ice. Nuisance animal complaints were handled and calls of dumped deer carcasses in road ditches and state land continue to come in.

CO Todd Langevin (Center City) reports a slow muzzleloader opener. Hunters have been seeing the same success as the regular firearms season. Early season ice fishermen are out in large numbers. Most reports are of three to five inches of ice. Some are seeing good success on large mouth bass and crappies. A few reports of ATVs on the ice have been heard this week. Anglers are reminded to use extreme caution when fishing on early ice.

District 13 - West Metro area

CO Kevin Neitzke (Ft. Snelling) patrolled for small game and deer hunters. He checked waterfowl hunters. CO Neitzke patrolled for fishermen along metro rivers. He also patrolled Ft. Snelling State Park.

CO Steve Walter (Waconia) worked the muzzleloader deer opener and did not see a deer shot. Goose and duck hunters were checked in cornfields. One group had eight geese. The first ice anglers of the year were out with little success.

CO Thor Nelson (Bloomington) spent time on deer and small game enforcement. COs Block and Nelson encountered a pheasant hunter who left his shotgun behind in a WMA to avoid detection since he didn’t have a license. The shotgun was located and seized and the owner was cited for taking small game without a license. Numerous pheasant hunters were encountered wearing game vests with blaze orange patches over the shoulders of the garments. CO Nelson reminds small game hunters that during the firearms and muzzleloading deer seasons, all clothing worn above the waist excluding the sleeves must be blaze orange or a camouflage pattern containing at least 50 percent blaze orange in every square foot. Hats also must be blaze orange or blaze orange camouflage.

CO Adam Block (Prior Lake) spent the week checking small and big game activity. Most hunters reported seeing few pheasants and even fewer deer. Numerous violations were detected throughout the week with blaze orange violations being the number one violation.

CO Aaron Kahre (Minnetonka) finished up on a license investigation case. CO Kahre also spent time checking deer hunters in Carver and Hennepin counties. The CO fielded several TIP calls regarding trespassing and illegal deer stands. CO Kahre also monitored local ice conditions and warns people that the ice is not yet safe to travel on.

CO Thephong Le (ELCOP) worked the muzzleloader deer season opener in Carver County. He checked a few pheasant hunters that were taking advantage of a long holiday weekend. He responded to questions that were hunting related. He took enforcement action for no blaze orange during deer firearm season and no valid registration on an ATV.

CO Vang Lee (ELCOP) worked big game and small game in the metro area. He worked at Lao Family office and had a talk in St. Paul to a youth group about CO duties, hunting and fishing regulations. He also patrolled state park, state trail and returned phone calls on small game hunting season.

CO Todd Kanieski (Osseo) responded to a call of shooting waterfowl after hours. He found two men, crawling on thin ice, shooting at waterfowl that were swimming in open water in the middle of a small lake. They were asked how they planned to retrieve the waterfowl they were trying to shoot. They stated they had already recovered a goose by sending their dog into the open water. After the dog made the retrieve they crawled to the edge of the ice and helped pull the dog out. They had no safety gear, like PFDs or ropes, and are lucky to be alive. Enforcement action was taken for a variety of violations. Kanieski also followed up on baiting investigations, a trespass violation and worked angling enforcement.

District 14 - East Metro area

CO Tony Salzer (Eagan) patrolled Spring Lake with CO McGowan for waterfowl activity. Several groups of hunters were checked. Hunters stated they were having greater success in the evening as opposed to the morning hunts. Hunters in general said this waterfowl season has been slow.

CO Travis Muyres (Ham Lake) worked deer hunting enforcement in Anoka County during the metro deer zone hunt and the muzzleloader seasons. Reports of hunters in the wrong zone were investigated. CO Muyres also investigated several trespass complaints.

CO Vuthy Pril (ELCOP) worked the muzzleloader opener, checked goose and archery hunters, and patrolled state parks and wildlife management areas. CO Pril attended firearms training at the Sherburne County Law Enforcement Center. He also spent some time on equipment maintenance.

CO Patrick McGowan (Hastings) monitored deer and duck hunting throughout the week. The 3B zone success rate has been low in Dakota Co and duck hunters are finding most areas freezing up due to cold temps. Violations found included stamp violations, no blaze orange, operate ATV on county road, and loaded firearm in motor vehicle. Several TIP call investigations continue.

CO Brad Johnson (Maplewood) checked a number of goose hunters this past weekend. Many geese have been flying to the St. Croix River now that most of the local ponds and lakes are frozen. He received reports of anglers out on the ice, but did not check any due to unsafe ice conditions. He also checked the last of the metro zone deer hunters.

CO Lisa Kruse (White Bear Lake) handled TIP calls and worked on deer cases. She worked with a Montana Warden on an antelope case and worked on equipment maintenance. She checked bow hunters, waterfowl hunters and did WMA enforcement.

CO Alex Gutierrez (Forest Lake) checked waterfowl hunters with mixed bag success. A waterfowl hunting TIP call was investigated with a mistaken hunter and injured bird. The CO followed up on several deer hunting cases with some different outcomes. One individual failed to register his harvested deer within 24hrs of the season expiring; proper enforcement action was taken. CO Gutierrez worked the muzzleloader deer opener with several hunters checked attempting to take deer the traditional way.

CO Greg Salo (East Metro) spent time finishing up some big game cases from the 2008 season. Several muzzleloader hunters were checked in Carlos Avery with very few deer being harvested. Trapping activity was also monitored and several questions were answered regarding public hunting land and injured animals.

District 15 - Marshall area

CO Matt Loftness (Marshall) states the muzzleloader opener was busy with a large number of muzzleloader and pheasant hunters out. A lot of complaints were received in reference to trespassing and illegal taking violations. Pheasant hunters need to remember that they must comply with firearm deer season blaze orange requirements during the muzzleloader season. Ice anglers have been trying their luck on some area lakes but should be aware that numerous areas of open water were seen, so extreme caution should be used. Enforcement action was taken for shooting from a roadway, transporting loaded firearms, transporting illegally taken big game, trespassing, allowing dogs to chase deer, and blaze orange violations.

CO Doug Lage (Marshall) sees noncompliance with the orange clothing requirements have been a problem. Enforcement action was taken on several pheasant hunters for not enough blaze orange during deer season. Several complaints were taken on trespassing, which are under investigation and will be sent to the county attorney for gross misdemeanor charges. Enforcement action was also taken on burning tires, uncased firearms and no pheasant stamp.

CO Neil Henriksen (Benson) reports that the muzzleloader deer season started with only a few complaints / concerns. Pheasant hunters need to be aware that that during the muzzleloader season that addition blaze orange is required. Several calls of sick / injured deer were handled.

CO Jim Robinson (Slayton) spent the week working deer investigations, checking pheasant hunters, and working the muzzleloader deer opener. Muzzleloader hunters seemed to have limited success. A spike mule deer buck was taken near Woodstock. Enforcement action was taken for transport uncased firearms, unlawful party hunting, and license/tagging/registration violations.

CO Ed Picht (Montevideo) reports investigating several TIP complaints. The most common violation was a lack of blaze orange. In one instance three men were hunting small game with no blaze orange on at all. The same three men had earlier asked the area wildlife manager if they could shoot slugs at geese. CO Picht also assisted the Lac qui Parle Sheriff’s Office with a fatal motor vehicle accident. Please make sure to always wear your seat belt in a vehicle, wear your helmet on an ATV or snowmobile, and your life jacket on the boat. These safety features were designed to save lives.

CO Gary Nordseth (Worthington) for a second week in a row, received numerous, unrelated complaints of dogs chasing deer. The long holiday weekend and mild temperatures lured a variety of hunters afield, including bow hunters, muzzleloader hunters, and pheasant hunters. Although many anglers have been observed on area lakes, the ice remains dangerously inconsistent. Earlier in the week, Officer Nordseth gave a snowmobile law presentation to approximately 25 youth at the Frosty Riders Snowmobile Club in Worthington. Enforcement action included burning prohibited materials (tires).

CO Craig Miska (Ortonville) received and returned numerous phone calls. A TIP complaint was received about the illegal taking of deer. The investigation continues. The muzzleloader deer season began, with hunters having limited success. Numerous pheasant hunters were checked, with many anticipating the increase in the daily and possession limit. Ice has formed on area lakes and a few die-hard anglers were seen. Remember to check ice conditions before risking your life to catch a fish.

Madison - vacant.

Redwood Falls - vacant.

District 16 - New Ulm area

CO Jim Steffen (Willmar) spent the week checking pheasant hunters, duck and goose hunters, muzzle loader hunters, and ice fishermen. Time was also spent working on reports from the deer season.

CO Brent Ihnen (Windom) spent the week checking pheasant and waterfowl hunters. Time was also spent working the opener of the muzzleloader deer season, and following up with ongoing big game investigations. Enforcement action taken for transporting an uncased firearm and transporting a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle.

CO Eric Schettler (Fairmont) monitored small game, big game and angling activity. Public areas were patrolled. Muzzleloading activity was average. Concerns on the availability of deer registration stations being open were of hot topic.

CO Mike Gruhlke (Jackson) continued to work deer season, waterfowl and pheasant seasons. Field hunting continues for waterfowl. Some continue to take to the early ice on area lakes. Ice consistency is not good. Enforcement action taken for shining, no state duck stamp, illegal transport of firearm.

CO Angela Graham (Hutchinson) spent the majority of the week checking small game hunters and deer hunters. Several ice fishermen were checked and reported having little success. Officer Graham also assisted with a call of a grass fire at a local WMA.

CO Brett Oberg (Hutchinson) answered calls regarding the upcoming change in the pheasant daily and possession limit. CO Oberg also assisted another CO on a case where a felon was hunting while in possession of a firearm. He also handled TIP calls.

CO Jeff Denz (Willmar) continued following up on cases from the deer season and worked the muzzleloader opener with very light pressure observed in the area. A lot of anglers are out ice fishing for the first time this year and caution is advised as the ice thickness varies throughout the lakes. Enforcement action included felon in possession of a firearm, hunting without a license, burning prohibited materials, and failure to display ID on fish shelter.

CO Greg Abraham (New Ulm) reports having issues with the remains of butchered deer found dumped in WMA parking lots and public access sites. Lots of ATV activity and even some snowmobile activity. Officer Abraham worked the opening of muzzleloader deer season and checked pheasant hunters along with trapping and trespass complaints.

District 17 - Mankato area

CO Corey Wiebusch (Mankato) reports ice conditions are not safe. Ice fishermen, however, are being seen on area lakes and taking some pan fish. Two individuals were investigated after a tip came in that they had shot a deer while out shining raccoon in Waseca County. Enforcement action was taken. Wiebusch assisted local authorities in apprehending an individual who escaped from the hospital in St. Peter. Several deer stands are also being left on area wildlife management areas. Hunters are reminded stands should be removed when not attended to avoid theft of stands and/or enforcement action.

CO Julie Siems (Faribault) reports ice houses through the ice already. A reminder to check ice conditions and forecasts. A trespassing complaint was investigated. Time was spent checking many hunters during the late 3B season. There were many muzzleloader hunters out as well. Violations included no license in possession and tagging a buck with an antlerless only tag.

CO Chris Howe (St. Peter) checked angling, small game, waterfowl, and muzzleloading activity. Sloughs are frozen, and the bigger lakes are skimming over. There were a few anglers testing their luck on the ice, while there were still waterfowlers hunting out of boats. That may be an indication that it’s a little early for ice angling. Muzzleloading activity for deer appeared light. Blaze orange compliance by small game hunters was poor. One hunter had a small red squirrel in his pack, still alive. The hunter was given the option of releasing it or dispatching it before taking it home. Since the red squirrel had already been shot, it was dispatched. Assistance was given to a local sheriff’s office regarding OHM problems. CO Howe also investigated carcass dumping and other litter complaints. One box full of litter had lots of identifying information, including credit card and social security numbers. It might be time for the litterbugs to invest in shredders. Howe also taught a section on laws and ethics to a snowmobile safety class in Nicollet.

CO Tom Hutchins (Albert Lea) reports spending much of the week checking deer hunters during the 3B season and muzzleloading season opener. Hunters reported having mixed success finding deer. Pheasant hunters, trappers, waterfowl hunters, and anglers were also checked. Several contacts were made with ATV operators. Violations encountered included various ATV, waterfowl, and deer hunting violations.

CO Phil George (Mantorville) worked deer hunters and checked trappers. Took calls of trespassing and a dog caught in a trap. Muzzleloading deer season started this past weekend with special hunts in area state parks. Enforcement action included hunting with an invalid license, tagging an antlered deer with a bonus tag and taking an antlered deer in the special state park hunt.

CO Bob Geving (Mankato) flew a wetlands photo flight and a pre-muzzleloader deer season baiting flight. Geving gave a law and ethics presentation for a snowmobile safety class and conducted follow up on a litter case. Geving worked the muzzleloader season opener and found hunters having poor to fair success.

Spring Valley - vacant.

Waseca - vacant.

District 18 - Rochester area

CO Mitch Boyum (Rushford) reports another busy week of deer hunting. Trespass complaints were the norm as a lot of hunters were out. Shooting from a motor vehicle, shooting from the roadway, transport untagged deer and failure to register deer were violations that were encountered.

CO Tyler Quandt (Red Wing) reports spending the week and the long Thanksgiving weekend working deer hunting activity. Over the weekend there were more muzzleloader hunters checked than 3B hunters. Two shining details were worked and one shooting from the road case was investigated with CO Prodzinski. Several trespass violations were also investigated.

CO Scott Fritz (LaCrescent) reports backwaters making ice. A few anglers are trying their luck. Walleye and sauger are being caught by the dams. A few ducks were taken on main channel open water areas. Fewer than normal deer were taken the week of the second season firearm and opening weekend of muzzleloader. Enforcement for the week included uncased firearm and untagged deer.

CO Dan McBroom (Rochester) spent most of the week with the B deer season and the opener of the muzzleloader season. Most hunters reported a low number of deer harvested. Many trespassing complaints where handled. Reports of dumping deer carcasses where reported with one involving 8 - 10 deer carcasses being dumped off a bridge into the north branch of the Root River. Hunters are reminded that it is illegal to dump their deer carcasses along roadways or other properties without permission. This practice sheds a very poor light on all hunters and offends many people. Olmsted County was assisted on a hunting accident where an individual was shot by one of his hunting party during a deer drive.

CO Tom Hemker (Winona) reports deer hunting, duck hunting, open water fishing, ice fishing, and trapping to be going strong in the area. He has had very few problems with deer hunters except an occasional trespass issue. Although there seems to be plenty of hunters, there does not seem to be as many deer taken as usual. Duck hunting is spotty. Ice fishing appears to be good but the ice is still iffy.

CO Joel Heyn (Plainview) worked mainly deer hunters during the week. Hunters were having better success earlier in the week and by the weekend things were pretty slow. A number of duck hunters were out on the river but success was poor.

CO Kevin Prodzinski (Zumbrota) reports teaming up with CO Quandt (Red Wing) in response to the final call of the 3-B deer season. A subject was observed shooting one deer from his vehicle from the wrong side of a county road. He then sped down another county road to cut off the remaining 3 deer in the heard. After shooting 3 more times this time from the road, the chase continued, unfortunately the slippery conditions resulted in the his pickup ending up on its roof. Upon arrival Officer Prodzinski recovered the still loaded firearm from the overturned vehicle.

CO Scott Moran (Wabasha) reports one of the quietest 3B deer seasons in recent memory. Fewer hunters than usual and many commenting on not getting a deer. Some bigger groups did have an average of more than one deer per hunter. Some complaints of traps not being tended have been received. The backwaters are slowly getting ice.

Training Section

Planning for next year’s training, including ordering equipment and supplies and reserving training areas at Camp Ripley.

Aviation Section

CO Pilot Don Murray (Grand Rapids) documented wetland impacts and checked ice fishermen. Several fishermen were having good success and many area lakes are covered with 4-8 inches of good ice while others remain with open water. Local knowledge and frequent ice depth checks is the key to ice safety this time of year. Do not assume that all lakes have the same ice conditions.

CO Pilot Tom Pfingsten (Brainerd) flew telemetry for moose, lynx, and marten in NE Minnesota.

Standby CO Pilot Jason Jensen flew an Operation Bird’s Eye View flight over Carlton County. About 20 impacts were detected. In route to this flight, he took photos of certain possible violation areas as requested in Anoka and Washington counties. He also assisted CO Pilot Pfingsten with telemetry flights in NE Minnesota.

Stand-by Pilot Bob Geving flew a wetlands photo flight and a pre-muzzleloader deer season baiting flight.

NR Pilot John Heineman (Bemidji) flew bear telemetry in northwest Minnesota and pilot training in 605NR.

Wetland Enforcement Officers

Conservation Officer Traci Hanson attended the Beltrami County Technical Advisory Committee meeting. The group discussed 23 possible new violations. CDOs will be issued over the coming weeks for those confirmed as violations. The group also discussed pending cases and Hanson spoke with the county attorney about prosecution of some of the outstanding violations. Hanson worked on Bird’s Eye View flight reviews and went on a site visit with Division of Waters for a violation in Clay county. Hanson also assisted local officers with muzzleloader deer season, including in assisting with an investigation of an illegally taken deer by rifle by a convicted felon.

Metro WEO Jason Jensen reports completing an OBEV flight in Carlton County this past week with around 20 impacts noted. Jensen also shot some site specific wetland impacts in Anoka and Washington counties. Jensen completed other flight tasks and completed more old files from WCA and public water cases.

Water Resource Enforcement Officer Tony Arhart (Grand Rapids) maintained wetland and waters cases, issued three Restoration Orders and received wetland Cease and Desist Orders from Conservation Officers. Arhart also responded to road-killed deer calls, checked dark house spearers, ATVs, ice anglers and bait. A 41- inch northern pike was speared on Winnie last week.

Lt. Mike Scott Waters Resource Enforcement Officer (Duluth) spent time working with Lt. Jensen with a flight over Carlton County. Lt. Jensen located possible wetland violation sites with further follow up from ground to be completed. Completed reports from deer season where several hunters were cited for hunting over bait. Talked with Carlton County Attorney ref an ongoing case that is pending in court in December. Discussed information and followed up on info for case file. Talked with DNR Hydrologists reference Sand Lake Public Waters permit violation. Landowner is working with DNR for compliance with permit.

Wetland Enforcement Officer Larry Hanson issued a rescind order for a violation in Blue Earth County. Hanson also met with Big Stone Co. Engineer and the DNR Hydro on large Public Waters wetland violation in Big Stone County.

Water Resource Enforcement Officer Shane Siltala (Fergus Falls) submitted information on a wetlands case to the county attorney for further review. The officer also submitted a letter to a landowner regarding compliance of a current Restoration Order requiring the landowner to restore impacts. Lt. Siltala also monitored muzzleloader hunters during the Saturday opener. Some equipment maintenance issues were also addressed.

Water Resource Enforcement Officer Julie Olson worked on an unusual WCA case that took up a fair amount of time. Attended the Pine County TEP meeting. Lt. Olson also attended a refresher course on handgun shooting.

Enforcement Education

Please check the DNR WEB SITE at dnr.state.mn.us for a current class listing of all DNR Enforcement Education Courses and instructor training sessions

Please check the DNR WEB SITE at dnr.state.mn.us for a current class listing of all DNR Enforcement Youth Snowmobile Safety Courses and instructor training sessions. Adult Snowmobile Safety Training CDs are available by calling 1-800-366-8917 or 1-888-MINNDNR.

A few spring Firearms Safety Classes being posed on the web site sign up now. If you missed a fall class and are over 16, check on-line for Adult Home Study or On-Line course information is also located at dnr.state.mn.us.

Youth ATV Courses (12 to 15 years old) class postings for around the state are posted on the web site. Students are reminded that they must complete the CD portion of the course before attending the classroom portion of the course. Youth/Adult ATV Safety Training Course CDs are available by calling 1-800-366-8917 or 1-888-MINNDNR

Reminder---anyone born after 12-31-79 cannot purchase a license to hunt in Minnesota without first taking a DNR Safety Training Course and receiving a certificate. In addition many states have even more stringent mandatory Hunter Education requirements. Check before you go!!!

Reminder---Any resident born after December 31, 1976, who operates a snowmobile in Minnesota, must possess a snowmobile Certificate. Two options are available to complete certification, 11 and older can attend the traditional youth course. Those 16 or older can take the at home CD course.

Reminder---Anyone born after July 1st, 1987, who operates an ATV on public lands and waters in Minnesota, must successfully complete the ATV Safety Training CD course. Persons under age 16 must complete the ATV CD Course and riding component before riding on public lands. Youth/Adult ATV Training CDs are available by calling 1-800-366-8917 or 1-888-MINNDNR.

SCHEDULED INSTRUCTOR TRAINING SESSIONS

If you are 18 or older and would like to become an instructor for Snowmobile Safety, ATV Safety, Firearms Safety, or one of the Advanced Hunter programs, contact your local Conservation Officer or Regional Safety Training officer. Instructor clinics are scheduled throughout the state and are listed here and on the DNR Website.

See Also: MACROBUTTON HtmlResAnchor

FIREARMS SAFETY HUNTER ED INSTRUCTOR TRAINING:

Andover 2-17-09

5 PM to 9 PM

Andover Christian Church 16045 Nightingale St. NE

Park on south side enter West door

Contact RTO Leland Owens at 763-753-1887

SNOWMOBILE SAFETY:

ATV SAFETY INSTRUCTOR:

Remer 2-28-09

9 AM to 12:30 PM

Soo Line Depot Building, Main Street

Contact RTO Todd Manley at 218-566-2268

TRAIL AMBASSADOR (Must Be Certified as Youth ATV Instructor)

Remer 3-12-09

9 AM to 7 PM

Soo Line Depot Building, Main Street

Contact RTO Todd Manley at 218-566-2268

Thief River Falls 4-4-09

9 AM to 7 PM

DNR Area Office, 246 125th Ave NE

Contact RTO Todd Manley at 218-566-2268

Bemidji 4-25-09

9 AM to 7 PM

DNR Regional Office, 2115 Birchmount Beach Rd NE

Contact RTO Todd Manley at 218-566-2268

BOW HUNTER ED INSTRUCTOR TRAINING:

BEAR OR TURKEY CLINIC INSTRUCTOR (3 HOUR) None at this time, contact your RTO to schedule one.

RTO NAMES PHONE NUMBERS/E-MAIL:

Leland Owens 763-753-1887 leland.owens@dnr.state.mn.us

Ross Opsahl 651-686-7998 MACROBUTTON HtmlResAnchor ross.opsahl@dnr.state.mn.us

Shelly Patten 218-897-5132 MACROBUTTON HtmlResAnchor shelly.patten@dnr.state.mn.us

Jim Hatlevig 218-758-2459 MACROBUTTON HtmlResAnchor james.Hatlevig@dnr.state.mn.us

Frank Rezac 320-230-8549 frank.rezac@dnr.state.mn.us

Bruce Lawrence 651-674-2705 bruce.lawrence@dnr.state.mn.us

Jeff Fleming 507-765-2724 jeff.fleming@dnr.state.mn.us

Todd Manley 218-566-2268 todd.manley@dnr.state.mn.us

STAFF NOTES:

Southwest Metro RTO Ross Opsahl worked on volunteer instructor background checks. He continued on finalizing turkey clinics to be held in 2009 having received confirmation on six clinics. He worked with a District 14 officer on late season waterfowl hunters on the Mississippi; the temperatures were a balmy 33 degrees. He worked on Use of Force training issues for Wildlife section firearms qualifications. He assisted with mentoring a youth who went Pine Marten and Fisher trapping for the first time.

West Central RTO Frank Rezac reports working on instructor backgrounds and Turkey Clinic information. He also spoke to the Sauk Rapids Rice School board about projects that were completed with teaching staff and students at Sauk Rapids Rice High School. Upcoming project information was also shared with the board.

Education Specialist Jim Hatlevig worked on the all day FAS Range and Field materials.

Education Specialist: Vacant

Curriculum Coordinator: Vacant

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