DNR Conservation Reports – District 10 (Mille Lacs area)

District 10 – Mille Lacs area

Last updated: 2023-01-10

CO Gregory Verkuilen (Garrison) checked lake activity where rough ice, slush and snow continued to impede access. Snowmobiles and ATVs have been the preferred means of access resulting in violations for registration, safety training, and no helmets on juveniles. Trapping activity was monitored where deep snow was making some furbearers easier to track.

CO Victoria Griffith (Isle) responded to a call of a snowmobile that went through the ice on Mille Lacs Lake. Griffith also assisted with a local snowmobile safety class. Snowmobile activity was monitored and time was spent on area lakes checking anglers. Shelter license violations were a common theme throughout the week. Enforcement action was taken for extra lines, expired snowmobile registration, and ice shelter violations.

CO Nate Benkofske (McGregor) checked anglers and snowmobile riders in the area. Enforcement action was taken for expired snowmobile registration, too many angling lines, unattended angling lines, no angling license, and allowing youth to snowmobile illegally. Assistance was given at a snowmobile injury crash. Benkofske also spoke to local youth at a snowmobile safety class.

CO Dan Starr (Onamia) monitored ice fishing and bobcat trapping. Work continued on a trespass case. Other enforcement action taken included failing to transfer ownership on recreational vehicles.

CO Ashley Whiteoak (Aitkin) spent time patrolling for ice angling activity. Snowmobilers and trappers were also checked. She also followed up on an aerator violation and a trapping complaint.

Wealthwood vacant.

Malmo vacant.