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In This Issue
Public forum March 10 on non-toxic shot only on farmland WMAs
Question of the week: snowmobile season
Dnr News – For Immediate Release
Public forum March 10 on non-toxic shot only on farmland WMAs
People interested in learning more about a possible requirement that only non-toxic shot be used on wildlife management areas in Minnesota’s farmland zone can attend a public forum from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 10, at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources headquarters cafeteria, 500 Lafayette Road, in St. Paul.
“This is the first time the public has had a chance to express their opinions in person about the proposal,” said Steve Merchant, wildlife populations program manager. “There often is no substitute for a face-to-face conversation about topics like this that generate strong interest.”
During the meeting, attendees will see a brief DNR presentation explaining the possible non-toxic shot rule and reasons why the DNR may choose to enact it. Attendees will have the opportunity to make public comments at the forum as well as leave written comments.
The DNR received initial responses – both for and against – on the possible rule earlier this winter. Based on the strong interest about the proposal during this initial public comment phase, the DNR decided to further explore public views by hosting an in-person forum. Comments at the public forum will be considered when a decision on whether to move forward is made later this coming spring.
Information about non-toxic shot and the rule under consideration are available on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/hunting/nts.
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Question of the week
Q: When does the snowmobiling season end for riding on state grant-in-aid trails?
A: Late season snowmobilers need to be aware of changing conditions, including bare spots, flowing water and exposed rocks. Some gates may be closed on grant-in-aid trails late in the season. As the temperatures rise, riding conditions are likely to deteriorate, so it’s best to check conditions before hitting the trails.
The statewide snow depth map and state trail conditions are updated by 2 p.m. every Thursday at www.mndnr.gov/snow. For the most up-to-date trail conditions, contact the local trail administrator. Contact information can be found on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/snowmobiling/trailcontacts.html or by calling the DNR Information Center, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.
The grant-in-aid trails are maintained by thousands of local snowmobile club volunteers who work throughout the year to ensure that trail corridors are maintained, permission for trail routes is secured, signs are installed, and trails are groomed.
Andrew Korsberg, state trail program coordinator
