DNR Conservation Officer Reports – District 10 (Mille Lacs area)

District 10 – Mille Lacs area

Last updated: 2022-09-06

CO Gregory Verkuilen (Garrison) monitored lake activity over the holiday weekend. Hunters were back in the field due to several hunting openers during the past week. Verkuilen also assisted with a hunter safety class and the confiscated equipment auction.

CO Victoria Griffith (Isle) spent time checking bear hunters and anglers and responding to complaints. The ATV trails were busy during the weekend. Assistance was given on an ATV accident on the Red Top Trail and at a firearms safety class. Enforcement action was taken for various ATV violations and unregistered bear baits. Griffith stopped a car driving down an ATV trail. The driver stated that he did not notice the large, Soo Line Trail sign, but noticed the road seemed a little bumpy.

CO Nate Benkofske (McGregor) reported checking waterfowl hunters, bear hunters, and recreational vehicle users throughout the holiday weekend. Wild Rice Days in McGregor drew a large crowd to the area. Enforcement action was taken for no federal duck stamp, unplugged shotguns, fishing without a license, expired ATV registration, driving with a cancelled license, and for children not wearing life jackets.

CO Dan Starr (Onamia) worked bear season, wild ricing activity, duck season, goose season and ATV, watercraft, and fishing activities. Violations of insufficient PFDs were found, along with no boat lights at night. Bear hunters were found with some loaded guns in a motor vehicle, untagged bears, and unregistered bait sites.

Wealthwood vacant.

Malmo vacant.