DNR report

Lake County

Dan Thomasen (Two Harbors) has received numerous baiting complaints as deer season draws closer. A wetlands investigation was worked on as well. Evidence of ATVs crossing unfrozen rivers and streams has been found in numerous locations. People operating ATVs are reminded that it is illegal to operate an ATV in the unfrozen waters of the state.

Brad Johnson (Silver Bay) checked grouse hunters and ATVs. Issued an ATV disability permit. Patrolled at Split Rock State Park. The light snow around Finland was not enough to bring out the snowmobiles.

North

John Velsvaag (Ely) checked duck and grouse hunters seeing limited success. Checked anglers who were having a little more luck. Took several complaints on ATVs in town and a trespass complaint.

Marty Stage (Ely) spent time working on seasonal equipment storage and office work. Hunters are still looking for grouse and there have been a couple trespass complaints. The deer have been on the road edges again, so be careful.

North Shore

Darin Fagerman (Grand Marais) checked trappers, grouse hunters, and for deer baiting activity. Whitefish netting has gotten off to a slow start. Took care of some wetlands issues during the week also.

Mary Manning (Hovland) responded to another report of a wolf caught in a trap. Took a call on an injured bear. Checked traps, patrolled area forest roads, SNAs, and campgrounds. Boat winterization was completed and seized property was disposed of.

Thomas Wahlstrom (Tofte) answered numerous questions about the upcoming deer hunting season. Checked grouse and archery hunters. Grouse hunters are still finding success off the beaten path. Equipment maintenance was dealt with for the upcoming winter season.

Kipp Duncan (Duluth) assisted with an adult Firearms Safety Class that certified around 50 adults. Trespass and deer stand locations were a common complaint during the week. Several nights were worked at past deer shinning complaint areas. Charges will be forwarded to the county attorney’s office on three individuals for shining and shooting deer out of the box of a pickup truck.

Lake Superior Marine Unit

Troy Ter Meer (Lake Superior Marine Unit) attended training and assisted with an adult hunter education field day in the area. Anglers were checked and some AIS work on the few boaters still using Lake Superior. A fire investigation was completed and reports turned in. Enforcement action taken for AIS violations.

Matt Miller (Lake Superior Marine Unit) checked ATVs and deer hunters preparing for the upcoming firearms season. An individual that was contacted last season and cited for different violations including operating an ATV in a trout stream was found committing the same violation in the same spot; the result was also the same. Commercial nets were checked for proper markings, with recommendations given to operators on how to improve their markings. Enforcement action taken for ATV and angling violations.

Tags: lake county, outdoors