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The 27-mile Wildlife Drive within the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area will be open to the public on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, weather and dike conditions allowing.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is cautioning boaters in some parts of northeast Minnesota that launching watercraft may be difficult this spring due to low water levels on many lakes and rivers.

The approaching walleye fishing season comes with a reminder from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to always follow state laws to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has certified a new catch-and-release state record lake sturgeon, an 80-inch fish caught by Travis Keating April 18 on the Rainy River in Lake of the Woods County.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is expanding the area subject to open burning restrictions of vegetative debris, as warm and dry weather spreads throughout the state.

Minnesota cougar kittens documented on camera by Voyageurs Wolf Project

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has named Chris Conroy of Eagan as the 2025 volunteer ATV instructor of the year.

With winter in the rearview mirror, the summer off-highway vehicle riding season opens May 1 in Minnesota.

Reminder for bear hunters: lottery applications due May 1

Each year, DNR foresters coordinate tree plantings in state forests, wildlife management areas, state parks, and other DNR-managed lands. This spring, 14 species will be planted on more than 3,000 acres throughout the state, including several varieties of pine, spruce and oak, as well as yellow birch, sugar maple, black walnut and tamarack.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resource invites anyone interested in fisheries management of Mille Lacs Lake to an informational meeting on the Thursday evening before fishing opener.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 29 counties in parts of northwest, west central, and southwest Minnesota effective today, April 23, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for an additional 27 counties in Minnesota effective today, April 22, until 8 p.m., due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 27 counties in southwest Minnesota effective Wednesday, April 22, from noon until 8 p.m. due to extreme fire danger.

Anglers looking for local fishing information before the Saturday, May 9 fishing opener can check the regional fishing outlooks from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

More than 13,500 volunteers helped the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources do everything from monitoring rainfall levels to clearing trails in 2025, according to the annual DNR volunteer report. The DNR is releasing the report in celebration of National Volunteer Week, April 19-25, a time when organizations across the country honor volunteers and recognize the impact of their efforts.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources seeks public input on proposed designated trail revisions within the Zumbro Bottoms Management Unit of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest in Wabasha County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Little Cormorant Lake, near Audubon in Becker County.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 66 counties across Minnesota, effective today, April 20, until 8 p.m., due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has expanded the area subject to open burning restrictions of vegetative debris, beginning Monday, April 20, at 8 a.m., as warm and dry weather spreads throughout the state.

Minnesota has among the most rigorous state-level environmental protections in the nation. Nothing in the Senate’s action on April 16, 2026, changes that.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has finalized its multi-year effort to update the state’s long-range plan for muskellunge. The plan is available on the DNR muskie webpage (mndnr.gov/muskie) and will be used to guide muskie management in Minnesota through 2040.

USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Award has nominated Gooseberry Falls State Park for its Best State Park category. Fans of the park can vote daily through Monday, May 11 at noon.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for several counties in portions of southwest and west central Minnesota, effective Thursday, April 16, from 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. due to extreme fire risk conditions.

Starting in May 2026, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is introducing a “same day pay then stay” model for camping in state forest campgrounds. Under this new model, campers will pay for their campsite prior to occupying it instead of occupying a site first and paying afterward.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will waive vehicle permit fees at all 73 state parks and recreation areas on Saturday, April 25.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages moms who live in Minnesota to join a free virtual fishing challenge during Take a Mom Fishing Weekend Saturday, May 9, through Sunday, May 10, when Minnesota moms can fish without purchasing a fishing license.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota Twins are once again partnering on Minnesota DNR Days at select games. Anyone with a 2026 Minnesota fishing or hunting license can access a ticket package that includes a special edition Twins fishing cap with a ticket purchase.

Anglers, hunters and trappers are invited to attend an informational webinar on Thursday, April 30 and share their thoughts with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources about the state’s annual hunting, trapping, and fishing regulations books. People are also welcome to submit feedback through May 7 through an online questionnaire, email or mail.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for two counties in southwest Minnesota, effective today, April 12, until 7 pm, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds anyone who’s around lakes, rivers and ponds that cold water is dangerous and unexpected falls into the water can quickly turn tragic.

The Minnesota State Climatology Office is seeking rainfall monitors for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, or CoCoRaHS. The data from backyard rain gauges are a critical source of information and it is beneficial to add more volunteer weather observers each year, even in areas where there are already volunteers.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding Minnesotans that not pruning or cutting oaks from April through July is the simplest way to curb the spread of oak wilt disease. Oak wilt is a non-native disease that can kill any oak species in Minnesota.

Communities across Minnesota have a powerful new way to explore, understand and plan community forests. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has launched the Community Tree Canopy Viewer, an interactive mapping tool to guide future planting and management decisions for community forests.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comments on a draft amendment to Rice Lake State Park’s management plan. The comment period is open through May 8.

Prospective bear hunters have until Friday, May 1, to apply for a bear hunting license from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Three Minnesota state parks offer tours that give visitors the opportunity to explore unique historic and natural features: a bison range, a former historic iron mine and Minnesota’s longest cave. These tours will return in May, and visitors can make reservations through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources starting on April 1.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is restricting the open burning of vegetative debris effective tomorrow, Monday, March 30, due to increased wildfire risk resulting from warm temperatures and dry conditions in parts of central, northwest, and northeast Minnesota.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for most of Minnesota effective Saturday, March 28, due to extreme fire danger.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has received a donation of 155 acres from Trust for Public Land, expanding the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest in southeastern Minnesota.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has created a new camping experience designed with off-highway vehicle riders in mind that will open June 12.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is encouraging homeowners to remove birdfeeders now and check their property for food sources that could attract bears. While most female bears with cubs and yearlings are still near their denning areas, some full-grown bears are starting to emerge from their dens in search of easy food sources.

The most recent Minnesota moose population estimate is approximately 4,470 animals, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ 2026 population survey.

Webinars on the 75th anniversary of wildlife management areas in Minnesota, turkeys, and native fish, are part of the spring lineup for the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has named Joseph Shimota the 2025 volunteer snowmobile safety instructor of the year.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has begun temporarily closing some DNR-managed roads and motorized trails as seasonal melting makes them too soft to support vehicle traffic without causing damage.

Anglers fishing on Upper Red Lake during the 2026 open-water season that starts Saturday, May 9, will have a five-walleye possession limit, with only one walleye longer than 17 inches allowed. This is the same regulation that was in place for the 2025 open-water season.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites those interested in Rainy Lake fisheries management to share their thoughts on a draft update of the plan for the lake.

Registration for summer and fall 2026 I Can! outdoor recreation programs in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas opens Friday, March 20.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ FalconCam is live for the 2026 nesting season. This year’s livestream is using a new camera that offers a much sharper view of peregrine falcons – and, for the first time, the DNR FalconCam includes sound.

USA Today 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards has nominated Minnesota’s Gitchi-Gami State Trail for Best Recreational Trail. Nominations are selected by a panel of experts and USA Today 10BEST editors.

Camping and lodging reservations for Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are available 120 days in advance, meaning reservations for early July are now open.

The fall hunting seasons might seem a long way off, but the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages anyone who plans to take a firearms safety class to sign up now.

In recognition of his outstanding overall career performance, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Enforcement Division named Conservation Officer Patrick McGowan the 2025 Conservation Officer of the Year.

Anglers on Mille Lacs Lake will have the opportunity to harvest three walleyes starting on the fishing opener on Saturday, May 9.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages Minnesotans to check for lingering heat from campfires, burn piles, and ash removed from wood stoves or heaters.

Proposed amendments include additional overnight lodging opportunities, redeveloping public water accesses and more.

March is the month to connect with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ fisheries offices across the state.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking applicants for its Conservation Officer Prep program, which provides a pathway for people without previous law enforcement experience to become conservation officers.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will offer programs at five state parks to introduce people to the fun of making maple syrup, as well as the equipment needed and the processes used.

Application period for ENRTF Community Grant Program Advisory Council now open.

Anglers can now fish for bass before the traditional May fishing opener

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers to start planning for bringing ice shelters off the ice in advance of approaching removal deadlines.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is extending the comment period by 15 days for each of the first four counties in the DNR Public Waters Inventory Update Project.

Visitors to Marsh Lake in the Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area will see lowered water levels as the result of a drawdown planned for spring and summer 2026.

Get Out MORE-funded project improves access to trails, fishing, and other recreation

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for three counties in southwest Minnesota, effective today, February 18, from 10 am until 6 pm, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments on two proposed off-highway vehicle trail projects under the grant-in-aid program.

Replacing the water control structure and dredging the public water access planned for 2026 and 2027

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Minnesotans can support the conservation of the state’s rare and vulnerable wildlife with a contribution to the Nongame Wildlife Fund through their state tax returns.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recently published “The Groundwater Atlas of Houston County.”

Starting Monday, Feb. 9, the daily and possession limit for yellow perch on Mille Lacs Lake will be reduced from 10 to five.

MOU puts in writing how the DNR, White Earth Nation collaborate on natural resources management on state owned, DNR-managed land within the White Earth State Forest.

New rules would improve conservation for many Minnesota fish.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Residents and visitors of Dundas can now walk, snowshoe, ski and more on a new 1-mile segment of the Mill Towns State Trail.

Participants will leave with snowshoes created in class.

Four ways Minnesota forests are adapted to winter.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is soliciting public comments on the draft 2026-2030 Assessment and Strategy for Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program.

In areas with rideable snow, snowmobiling is a common activity on Minnesota’s trails, frozen lakes, and road ditches. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds riders to be safe when they head out.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages the nearly 200,000 woodland owners across the state to consider how conifers fit into their woodland management plans.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussel larvae in Tanners Lake, abutting the town of Landfall in Washington County.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources staff recently stocked rainbow trout in Hiniker Pond near Mankato, making the fish available to anglers for the winter trout opener and beyond.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comments on two proposed off-highway vehicle trail projects under the Grant-in-Aid program.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ State Forest Nursery is seeking individuals to collect black spruce cones this winter.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of a zebra mussel larva in Goose Lake, near Stark in Chisago County.

Anglers, hunters and trappers are invited to share their thoughts with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources about the regulations books published annually to inform people about how they can legally hunt, trap and fish in the state.

New rules would also clarify the regulations for anglers on border waters.

DNR has tips on fishing, safety and combining fishing with other outdoor winter fun.

Webinars on Indigenous crafts, ice fishing for walleye, bat boxes and Hmong hunting heritage make up the winter lineup of the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Summary includes findings on insect outbreaks, diseases and other impacts to Minnesota forests.

Minnesotans encouraged to try winter outdoor recreation.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Watershed District of the Year award highlights conservation effectiveness.

Appreciation award highlights conservation effectiveness.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is looking for passionate and dedicated students interested in learning more about natural resource-related careers through paid summer internships.

Hunters contribute nearly 14,000 samples for CWD testing.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Enforcement Division recently recognized nine conservation officers for their lifesaving efforts in the past few months.

Wildlife lake designation proposed for the shallow lake.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comments on proposed administrative rules governing fur farms as directed by the Minnesota Legislature in 2024.

Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas are ready to welcome visitors for a full season of winter recreation, with opportunities ranging from skiing and snowshoeing to wildlife watching and peaceful candlelit walks.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is pleased to release a summary highlighting several significant agency accomplishments from 2025.

On Thursday, Jan. 1, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is hosting First Day Hike events at 12 state parks in support of a nationwide effort to connect people to the outdoors.

As Minnesotans settle into the winter season, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reminding landowners who harvest or buy firewood for heating to take the following steps to protect their homes, woods and selves.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will conduct aerial elk surveys in the next few weeks when snow cover and other conditions allow. DNR staff will survey the Kittson County and Grygla elk herds in northwest Minnesota and the border elk herd in both Minnesota and Manitoba.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced today that it has reached an agreement with Enbridge to address an aquifer breach related to the construction of the Line 3 Replacement Project at the Moose Lake site near Swatara in Aitkin County.

Twelve new Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conservation officers have completed their training and now occupy previously vacant field stations across the state.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has finalized strategic master plans for each of the three primary categories of off-highway vehicle recreation: all-terrain vehicles, off-road vehicles and off-highway motorcycles.

Each winter, candlelight events inspire people to get outdoors and explore Minnesota state parks and trails at night.

Weekly news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Deer hunters can participate in a late-season chronic wasting disease management hunt Friday, Dec. 19, through Sunday, Dec. 21.

This fall, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources finalized one of its largest land acquisitions in recent history, resulting in the permanent protection of nearly 16,000 acres of forested land across a ten-county area in northern Minnesota.

Visitors can learn about the landscapes and ecosystems of Sibley State Park and the continuing impact of climate change through newly installed and now open interactive exhibits at the park's visitor center.

The segment connects trail between Myre-Big Island State Park and Hayward

The popular Minnesota Department of Natural Resources EagleCam is launching its new season Tuesday, Dec. 2.

Winter is the ideal time to prune or remove oaks.

The 2026 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Roundtable — an annual gathering of conservation partners focused on discussing fisheries, wildlife, and ecological and water resource topics and encouraging partnerships — will again include a no-cost, open registration opportunity.

After several years of closure and construction, the new High Falls pedestrian bridge at Tettegouche State Park opens to the public on Monday, Nov. 24.

Hunting pheasants, ruffed grouse, squirrels or rabbits offers opportunities to enjoy the Minnesota outdoors as winter begins.

The Future Forest Fund provides a way to partner with the DNR to plant trees and keep state forests healthy for generations.

As snowmobile riders prepare for the upcoming riding season, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds riders of important information about safety, registration and trail conditions.

As temperatures fall and ice begins forming on ponds, small lakes, and other waterways across the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds parents and guardians to talk with their kids about the importance of safety on the ice and around the water.

Get Out MORE project will benefit brook trout, other species.

The walleye limit for ice fishing season on Mille Lacs Lake will remain at three fish longer than 17 inches, only one of which can be longer than 20 inches.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Hook configuration and length rule also clarified.

New plan will guide state park’s future recreation opportunities, resource management and interpretation.

Minnesotans are encouraged to explore outdoors with friends and family over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Online auction to be held Dec. 2-16.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has released a study of state trail visitors.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has a variety of budget-friendly holiday gift options for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, abilities and interests. These gifts include subscriptions to the Minnesota Conservation Volunteer, gift cards, Nature Store items, and lifetime hunting and fishing licenses.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites people interested in Lake Winnibigoshish to share their thoughts on prioritizing future management of the lake, as an initial step in updating the lake’s management plan.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has up to $1,060,000 available to local entities such as lake associations, watershed districts, cities, and counties, as well as Tribal governments, for the management of curly-leaf pondweed, Eurasian watermilfoil, flowering rush and/or starry stonewort.

As temperatures drop, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages homeowners to take simple steps to keep their yard trees healthy through fall and winter.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Big Sand Lake, near Dorset in Hubbard County.

People can comment through Nov. 18

Construction begins winter 2025; closure planned for summer 2026.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters and other recreationists spending time outdoors this fall to report the locations of bear dens they encounter in and around the Brainerd, Grand Rapids and Duluth areas.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for several counties in northeast Minnesota effective today from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of the invasive algae starry stonewort in Buffalo Lake, located in and adjacent to the city of Buffalo in Wright County.

With hundreds of thousands of hunters set to converge on the state’s fields and woods for the Saturday, Nov. 8 firearms deer opener, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that safe hunts are successful hunts.

The winter season walleye limit on Upper Red will be a four fish possession limit, with only one walleye longer than 17 inches allowed.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking individuals to collect tree seeds and cones this fall and winter.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has selected eight projects for funding under the Flood Hazard Mitigation Grant Assistance Program.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is joining partners across the country Oct. 19-25 in celebrating National Forest Products Week to recognize the essential connections between consumers, the forest products industry, and healthy, resilient forests.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reviewing the current protected slot limit for walleye on Sand Lake, near Squaw Lake.

More than 400,000 deer hunters are preparing for the firearms deer season, which opens Saturday, Nov. 8.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Munson Lake, near Detroit Lakes in Becker County, and Lake Six, near Frazee in Otter Tail County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting comments on an environmental assessment worksheet for the Reno Bottoms Floodplain Forest and Backwater Restoration Project, located in Houston County.

Celebration to be part of 13th annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages families to spend time outdoors during the MEA break, which is Oct. 16-17 this year.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Aerial seeding is one of several reforestation activities that take place on state-managed land in fall.

As part of a national Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 5-11) campaign, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wildland firefighters will be visiting schools and partnering with fire departments across the state to promote fire safety and wildfire prevention.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ State Forest Nursery will open seedling sales for spring 2026 at 9 a.m. on Wednesday., Oct. 1.

Fall is a great time to complete Firewise projects around homes and properties to reduce the risk of damage or loss from a wildfire.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with Minnesota Forestry Association, will host a fall webinar series to support woodland owners and forestry professionals as they respond to recent summer storm damage in the Bemidji area.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is preparing to manage grassland habitat by conducting a fall prescribed burn on part of the 1,556-acre Flowing Wildlife Management Area east of Hitterdal in Clay County.

With some hunters out in the field and woods, anglers still hitting the water this fall, and off-highway vehicle riders using their machines for hunting and recreational riding, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages everyone to have a safety-focused mindset.

Gov. Tim Walz has proclaimed Saturday, Sept. 27, as Public Lands Day in Minnesota, recognizing the vital role public lands play in Minnesota’s environmental stewardship, identity and economy.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Bass Lake, near Cohasset in Itasca County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of a zebra mussel in Turtle Lake, near Shoreview in Ramsey County.

Explore vibrant foliage, winding roads and outdoor adventures across 4.2 million acres of public land.

This September, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service will complete a joint biological control effort to slow the spread of emerald ash borer in the Chippewa National Forest.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has published “The Groundwater Atlas of Isanti County.”

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussel larvae in Lake Gervais and Spoon Lake, part of the Phalen chain of lakes between Little Canada and Maplewood in Ramsey County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of the invasive algae starry stonewort in Benedict Lake, near the town of Benedict in Hubbard County.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels and starry stonewort in Anna Lake, near Underwood in Otter Tail County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of zebra mussel larvae in White Earth Lake, near the town of White Earth in Becker County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Roosevelt Lake, near Outing in Cass and Crow Wing counties, and Swan Lake, near Pengilly in Itasca County.

Hunting diaries will give a more complete picture of bird populations.

It’s the time of year when leaves turn color, the air gets crisp, and hunters look forward to deer hunting opportunities as Minnesota’s archery deer season begins on Saturday, Sept. 13.

To celebrate Minnesota’s most colorful season, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is sharing a fall color forecast, typical timing of color change, ways for Minnesotans to find where colors are at their peak each week, and autumn trip-planning tips.

Water levels on the St. Croix River have dropped about 1.5 feet over the past week, necessitating closure of the public water access to the St. Croix River at William O’Brien State Park.

Salvage harvests underway on state-managed land near Bemidji following June blowdown.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will host three workshops in September for people interested in learning how to collect tree seeds and cones to sell to the State Forest Nursery.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Enforcement Division recently recognized three conservation officers for their lifesaving efforts over the last several months.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee is inviting people interested in fish and wildlife management to share their perspectives at an upcoming webinar.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Fox Lake, near Detroit Lakes in Becker County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed zebra mussels and zebra mussel larvae in Cedar Lake, near New Prague in Scott County, and Big Marine Lake, near Forest Lake in Washington County.

Analysis of water samples collected as part of a long-term monitoring project have shown small but measurable numbers of zebra mussel larvae, called veligers, in Lake Vermilion, Lake Kabetogama, Crane Lake and Namakan Lake, all in St. Louis County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting comments until 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2 on an environmental assessment worksheet related to the U.S. Steel Keetac Tailings Storage Facility Project, located in St. Louis and Itasca counties.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is recruiting new members to serve on key advisory groups related to fish and wildlife management, recreation, natural heritage, and conservation policy and funding.

Roadside survey also includes other species, with rabbit numbers at 60-year high.

Webinars on deer hunting, waterfowl, trail cameras and fish are included in the fall lineup of the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The number of small game hunters in Minnesota in 2024 decreased slightly from 2023 and was 5% below the 10-year average.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen and Minnesota Rep. Rick Hansen honored two youths for their outstanding conservation efforts during the annual DNR Commissioner’s Youth Awards event at the Minnesota State Fair, which recognize one 4-H and one Future Farmers of America student.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is proposing to increase the daily limit for yellow bass in the Fairmont chain of lakes (Amber, Hall, Budd, Sisseton and George) in Martin County, as well as in Lake Imogene in Martin County and Clear Lake in Jackson County.

The Minnesota DNR collaborated with local SWCD, property owners to replace a low-head dam with rock arch rapids to improve fish passage, water quality.

Community science helps broaden understanding of deer and other Minnesota animals

As riders head out, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources urges them to prioritize their safety.

Minnesota DNR reminds hunters about upcoming season dates.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Thirteen individuals recently graduated from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Conservation Officer Academy and have begun patrolling Minnesota’s fields, waters and woods.

Recent search event led to new confirmations.

The walleye limit on Mille Lacs Lake will increase from two to three beginning Saturday, Aug. 23, and continuing through Sunday, Nov. 30. The size limit — which allows anglers to harvest fish 17 inches or longer but only one longer than 20 inches — remains in place.

Collared bears provide important data to inform management decisions.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for $12 million in grants to help communities plant, maintain and protect trees across the state.

Partnership with Trust for Public Land adds two parcels to Nemadji State Forest and Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Union Lake, near Alexandria in Douglas County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input on new rules proposed for licensed fur farms in the state.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ building and surrounding grounds at the Minnesota State Fair (which runs from Aug. 21 to Sept. 1) will feature a new exhibit, demonstrations and activities in addition to popular annual attractions.

During the first week of September, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will begin a drawdown on the Upper Pool Impoundment at Grey Eagle Wildlife Management Area in Todd County.

Private landowners with open lands, such as former pastures or crop fields, can apply for financial assistance to plant trees through Minnesota DNR‘s Field to Forest Cost-Share Program.

As the Aug. 15 wild rice season opening date approaches, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds harvesters that rice stands must be ripe before they can be legally harvested.

Lake Alice, located in William O’Brien State Park, experienced a near total water level drawdown due to a mechanical issue with a valve in the 65-year-old water control structure that regulates its discharge to the St. Croix River.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

Anyone interested in wildlife is invited to chat with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wildlife managers in local DNR offices across the state from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, or by phone during these same hours.

Hunters can now review the 2025 Minnesota deer hunting regulations, and deer hunting licenses will be available to purchase starting Friday, Aug. 1.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

During the first week of August, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will begin a drawdown on the Nelson Slough Impoundment at East Park Wildlife Management Area in Marshall County. The drawdown is in preparation for construction of a new water control structure and embankment improvements slated to begin in late fall 2025.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has opened a 30-day public comment period on the Keystone Woods Wildlife Management Area Environmental Assessment. This is a federally required assessment under the National Environmental Policy Act that evaluates the environmental impacts of the potential federal action of applying a Land and Water Conservation Fund encumbrance to 455.55 acres of the WMA.

Geologists in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Aggregate Resource Mapping Program have completed a new map showing the potential for sand, gravel and crushed stone resources in Yellow Medicine County. These natural materials, known as construction aggregates, are crucial to the construction of roads, bridges, trails and buildings.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussel larvae in Long Lake, DeMontreville Lake and Olson Lake, a connected chain of lakes near Pine Springs in Washington County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ latest ruffed grouse counts found Minnesota’s spring 2025 population is lower statewide than last year. Ruffed grouse drums per stop were 1.8 statewide, down from 2.3 drums per stop last year, an expected drop considering spring 2024 was the highest 10-year cycle population peak for ruffed grouse since 1972.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recently named Jim Fridstrom, of Cambridge, as 2024 volunteer firearms safety instructor of the year.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has completed a 1.8-mile extension of the Minnesota Valley State Trail’s eastern segment in Bloomington, Minn., adding to a 1.7-mile segment completed in 2021.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Beltrami Lake, near Bemidji in Beltrami County.

The 27-mile Wildlife Drive within the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area will not open as planned this July. The opening has been canceled due to the discovery of damages to a key dike on the route. The Wildlife Drive is closed to vehicles, but bicycle and foot traffic is welcome and encouraged.

Once again in 2025, young people will be able to hunt deer with an adult in a number of state parks during several application-only special youth deer hunts. These hunts offer more individualized experiences in unique places, and often on different dates than the statewide youth deer season.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Ethel Lake, near the town of Ottertail in Otter Tail County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting new and updated grant applications for the Flood Hazard Mitigation Grant Assistance Program. Under this program, the state provides cost-share grants to local governments for capital improvement projects designed to address long-term flood concerns.

Recent storms throughout the state have caused major tree damage, and cleanup following a storm can be overwhelming. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has some tips on dealing with storm-damaged trees. Many communities also have resources and guidelines, especially after major storm events. Consider reaching out to your city, county or township to learn more.

Minnesotans are encouraged to report observations of ring-necked pheasants and wild turkeys in a citizen science effort by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. People can report any pheasant and turkeys they see in the wild now through Sunday, Aug. 31. Information from the reports will help the DNR monitor pheasant and turkey population trends, evaluate conservation efforts and make decisions about harvest regulations.

In partnership with over 200 libraries and bookmobiles across the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is expanding the popular library park pass program, which provides access to state parks and recreation areas at no cost to library patrons. Piloted in 2018 and launched statewide in 2021, the program offers seven-day state park passes that can be checked out from participating public libraries. In an exciting expansion of this successful program, effective July 1, the number of participating libraries and the number of park passes available to check out has more than doubled.

During this upcoming long Fourth of July weekend, lakes and rivers across Minnesota likely will be at their busiest. Among those planning to join those on the water: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conservation officers and public safety partners, whose aim is to ensure everyone makes it home safely at the end of the day. Officers will be out as part of Operation Dry Water, an annual nationwide campaign which runs from July 4-7. The campaign highlights the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs and calls attention to the heavy penalties associated with boating while intoxicated. The goal is to make the water safer for everyone by removing anyone operating under the influence.

Invasive carp previously fitted with acoustic tags have led the Minnesota DNR and its state and federal partners to a school of invasive carp in Pool 8 of the Mississippi River at the confluence of the Root River in Minnesota, near La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Changes in lake habitat, ecology and conditions coupled with technological advances in fishing gear and methods are prompting the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to seek public input on a possible reduction in the statewide walleye possession limit from six to four fish.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking for input on several special fishing regulation proposals. Each year, the Minnesota DNR reviews all existing fishing regulations, proposes new special regulations that apply to individual waters and asks the public for input about the proposals. All new special regulations are reviewed on a regular basis to evaluate effectiveness.

Minnesota state parks, recreation areas and trails are great places to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. There is an abundance of recreational opportunities for individuals, friends and families to enjoy for an hour, a day, or a full weekend.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds boaters and anglers that Canada requires watercraft and equipment to meet Canadian aquatic invasive species regulations before crossing into Canada.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Moose Lake, near Deer River in Itasca County, in Portage Lake, near Bena in Cass County, and in Inguadona Lake, near Longville in Cass County.

Anyone interested can learn from biologists and naturalists, while helping scientists document species diversity, on Saturday, July 26 during the BioBlitz event at Chamberlain Woods Scientific and Natural Area in Le Sueur County. The BioBlitz is a chance to shadow or assist naturalists and other scientists as they inventory the living organisms inhabiting the Chamberlain Woods in a one-day field study. It is an opportunity to learn from some of the top experts in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will collect water samples from about 90 wells in each county late this summer and fall to develop The Groundwater Atlas of Lincoln County and The Groundwater Atlas of Pipestone County.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is conducting a drawdown on Lake Maria in Murray County, located southwest of Garvin. The temporary lowering of water levels on the 442-acre shallow lake is taking place to improve wildlife habitat and water quality.

The 27-mile Wildlife Drive within the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area will be open from Saturday, July 19, through Sunday, July 27, and on the following weekends, Saturday, Aug. 2, and Sunday, Aug. 3, and Saturday, Aug. 9, and Sunday, Aug. 10. The self-guided tour traverses wetland, woodland, brushland, grassland and farmland habitats, providing visitors ample opportunity for wildlife viewing.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has named Steve Rykhus, of New Ulm, as the 2024 ATV instructor of the year.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has added eight counties to a deer feeding and attractant ban to reduce the risk of chronic wasting disease spread, after CWD was detected in wild deer in new areas of the state last year.

People can now share their thoughts on a draft update of the state’s long-range plan for muskellunge through Monday, June 30.

Hunters have through Thursday, July 3, to apply for one of four elk licenses offered this year by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources K9 Unit has expanded by four dogs and handlers and increased its ability many times over to detect aquatic invasive species, locate lost people, detect possible game and fish violations, and assist local law enforcement agencies with their evidence-detection needs.

Beginning July 1, 2025, more people who operate motorboats or personal watercrafts on Minnesota waters must obtain a valid watercraft operator’s permit. The updated requirements, passed into law during 2023, are intended to make boating safer by ensuring people operating motorized watercraft know the rules and are properly trained.

Minnesotans with an all-terrain vehicles registered for private or agricultural use won’t need to pay the additional registration fee ($60 for three years) to ride the state’s public ATV trails on June 14-15. Out-of-state riders can explore Minnesota’s ATV trails this weekend as well without the need for a nonresident ATV trail pass ($31 for one year).

Gov. Tim Walz has proclaimed June 2025 as Great Outdoors Month in Minnesota, encouraging Minnesotans to explore the state’s natural treasures and take part in the wide array of outdoor activities available across public lands and waters. The proclamation highlights the vital role outdoor recreation plays in the state’s identity, economy, and quality of life, and celebrates key initiatives like Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences).

During Take a Kid Fishing Weekend (Friday, June 6, to Sunday, June 8), Minnesota residents can fish without licenses if they take children 15 or younger fishing. Casting a line is one way among many to enjoy Great Outdoors Month, in June.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking volunteers to help monitor the loon population in Aitkin, Becker, Cook, Crow Wing, Itasca, Kandiyohi, Lake, and Otter Tail counties. Volunteers are needed for a minimum of one morning during the July 4 through July 14 monitoring period, to count the number of adult and juvenile loons on pre-selected lakes.

On Saturday, June 14, Glendalough State Park will celebrate the completion of its new trail center and the trail extension past Sunset Lake. Visitors can enjoy an open house at the new building from 10 a.m. until noon with cake and lemonade served by the Glendalough Park Partners. A program begins at 11 a.m. with appearances from State Senator Jordan Rasmusson, Battle Lake Mayor Richard Bullard, and senior DNR officials.

New fishing piers at Leech Lake in the city of Walker, and Lake Francis in the city of Elysian, are the newest of many fishing infrastructure improvements made possible by the Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences) one-time funding approved by the Minnesota Legislature in 2023.

The DNR is seeking people with a range of perspectives and experiences, including local fishing guides, local anglers, anglers from across Minnesota, local businesses and local resorts, and water-based businesses, to serve on two fisheries input groups, one for Lake Winnibigoshish and the other for Rainy Lake.

Webinars on walleye genetics, buckthorn management, and fish dubbed “living fossils” like gar and paddlefish will be among the outdoors topics covered in the summer series of the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is accepting comments until 4:30 p.m. June 26 on an environmental assessment worksheet related to the 3M Oakdale surface water diversion project, located in Washington County.

Voters nationwide chose Devil’s Kettle Trail as the best among 19 hiking trail nominees in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards

Anglers have been common sights on waterways across Minnesota, but lakes and rivers are about to become much busier with the arrival of Memorial Day weekend.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for several counties in northern Minnesota from noon until 9 p.m. today, May 20, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds hikers, campers and others recreating outdoors to be aware of bears and learn how to prevent conflicts with bears.

The DNR invites the public to an open house to share and gather information about extensive upgrades planned for Moccasin Point Public Water Access on Lake Vermilion near Tower, Minn. Construction is slated to begin after the 2025 boating season.

Four newly hatched chicks are now visible on the Minnesota DNR’s popular FalconCam. The Nongame Wildlife Program’s camera is in a nesting box in downtown St. Paul and will once again provide an intimate look at peregrine falcons raising their young.

In preparation for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is highlighting recreation opportunities across the state park, recreation area and trail system.

Due to extreme fire risk conditions, the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 65 counties in Minnesota effective Tuesday, May 13.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is inviting people to share their thoughts on a draft update of the state’s long-range plan for muskellunge.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 80 counties in Minnesota effective today, May 12, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 77 counties in Minnesota effective today, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. due to extreme fire danger.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for several counties in northwest Minnesota from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. today, May 10, due to extreme fire danger.

As Minnesota experiences an active spring wildfire season, with 475 wildfires reported since April 1, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is urging the public to take wildfire dangers seriously. If you see a wildfire, do not attempt to fight it yourself -- call 911 immediately from a safe location.

A weekly list of news briefs about fish, wildlife and habitat management.

The 27-mile Wildlife Drive within the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area will be open to the public on Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has begun a drawdown on Teal Lake in Jackson County, located south of Wilder. The temporary lowering of water levels on this 91-acre shallow lake is taking place to improve wildlife habitat and water quality.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for eight counties in northwest Minnesota for today, May 5.

With winter in the rearview mirror, the summer off-highway vehicle riding season is getting underway. Many of Minnesota’s more than 3,000 miles of trails for all types of OHVs and rider skill levels are now open for use.