DNR staff report


Latest Articles:

Minimize conflicts with bears this summer

In the absence of human-created attractions, bears rely on small, scattered patches of natural foods: specific types of young green vegetation in spring, certain species of ants and ant pupae in June, berries in summer, and nuts in fall. But if bears can get access to concentrated, high-calorie, easily accessible foods around people’s homes and campsites, they are quickly enticed... READ MORE >

Volunteers needed in Cook and Lake counties for DNR loon survey

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking volunteers to help monitor the loon population in Cook and Lake counties. Volunteers are needed for a minimum of one morning during the June 30 through July 10 monitoring period, to count the number of adult and juvenile loons on pre-selected lakes. For more than 20 years, with the assistance of hundreds... READ MORE >

Fish biodiversity and habitat facts

As fishing season ramps up, media are invited to use this information for story ideas or to include as part of longer articles, and are encouraged to contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to get connected to subject matter experts: All fish have value whether or not anglers typically pursue them. Native fish species benefit their ecosystems and the... READ MORE >

Minnesota’s moose count down; population remains relatively stable

This year’s population estimate of 3,290 moose marks a decade of Minnesota’s moose population remaining relatively stable, according to the results of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ 2023 aerial population survey. Although the estimate dropped from 2022’s estimate of 4,700, the change continues to reflect the population stability observed in previous years. After a decline from a population estimate... READ MORE >

DNR seeks applications for advisory committees on natural heritage, game and fish funds, hunting and fishing

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is recruiting new members to serve on seven key advisory groups related to Minnesota’s natural heritage, the Game and Fish fund, and hunting and fisheries management. Interested people can sign up on the Engage with DNR website (engage.dnr.state.mn.us/advisory-group-appointment-opportunities). In addition to the specific knowledge and experience required for each committee, the DNR seeks inclusive... READ MORE >

DNR to hold two online confiscated equipment auctions

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has scheduled two public auctions of confiscated fishing, hunting and trapping equipment, one on Saturday, August 27 and the other on Saturday, October 1. The auctions, which will be held online, include 316 firearms, 67 bows and a variety of other equipment. All of the equipment was confiscated following serious game and fish violations.... READ MORE >

Assistance available for managing storm damaged woods

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has resources and foresters available to help landowners manage woodlands damaged by recent tornadoes and storms. “Seeing trees down in your woods and coming up with a plan for cleanup can be overwhelming,” said Jennifer Teegarden, cooperative forest management outreach specialist. “Be sure to take advantage of the help the DNR can provide to... READ MORE >

DNR offers advice for dealing with storm damaged trees

Cleanup following a storm can be an overwhelming task for homeowners. If trees have been damaged, knowing which to save and which to remove can enhance people’s safety and the survival of remaining trees, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. When addressing storm-damaged trees: Do: • Use caution when approaching damaged trees. If there are downed wires, stay... READ MORE >

DNR webinars cover aquatic invasive species, North Shore foraging

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites Minnesotans interested in fishing, wildlife and outdoor skills to tune into upcoming webinars that will discuss aquatic invasive species and foraging wild edibles along the North Shore of Lake Superior. The first webinar on aquatic invasive species will be at noon Wednesday, June 15. Join April Rust, aquatic invasive species training coordinator, to... READ MORE >

Free entrance to all Minnesota state parks Saturday, June 11

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is offering free admission to all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas Saturday, June 11. This “Free Park Day” is one of four days each year on which the DNR waives the requirement for a vehicle permit to enter state parks and recreation areas. The entrance fee waiver does not cover activities like... READ MORE >