The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has released several updates and initiatives this week:
- **Walk-In Access Lands Open**: Starting September 1, around 30,000 acres of private land across Minnesota will be available for public use under the Walk-In Access program. These areas are open for hunting and other activities like bird watching and nature photography, following a recent legislative expansion. Access requires a $3 validation, and details are available on the Minnesota DNR website.
- **Bear Hunting Season Advisory**: With the bear hunting season starting September 1, the DNR urges hunters to avoid shooting marked research bears, identified by colorful ear tags and radio collars. The DNR is monitoring 48 of these bears across the state, particularly near Chippewa National Forest and Camp Ripley Military Reserve.
- **Deer Lottery Deadline**: Hunters aiming to harvest antlerless deer in designated permit areas must purchase their licenses by September 5 to be automatically entered into the antlerless deer lottery. Information on hunting regulations and application procedures is available on the DNR website.
- **Fall Outdoor Skills Webinars**: The DNR’s Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series continues with webinars covering topics from deer management to wildlife photography. These sessions are free but require registration, which can be completed on the DNR’s website.
- **Waterfowl Hunting Season**: The waterfowl hunting season begins September 1, with early teal and goose hunting. The DNR advises hunters to review regulations, particularly regarding areas closed to hunting near wild rice beds on reservations.
- **Northwest Elk Public Meeting**: A public meeting on northwest elk management is scheduled for September 10 in Thief River Falls. This meeting will discuss plans to expand Minnesota’s elk population and provide more recreational opportunities.
- **Advisory Group Applications**: The DNR is seeking applications for several advisory groups related to fish and wildlife conservation, invasive species, and parks and trails. Interested individuals can apply online by September 27.
- **$2.3 Million in Community Tree Care Grants**: The DNR is offering $2.3 million in grants to foster careers in urban and community tree care. These grants aim to recruit and train individuals from diverse backgrounds in tree care and maintenance. Applications are due by October 8.