Conservation Officer Report: Shooting from the Road | Sports & Recreation

The Minnesota DNR provided the following summaries of last week's activities by Conservation Officers:

CO Randy Hanzal (Duluth) had several complaints of people shooting from the roadway that led to some deer decoy work in the area. The decoy proved to be very effective catching a repeat customer from a few years ago. Several complaints of deer carcasses being dumped along roadways and ditches were investigated. This type of litter is disgusting and reflects badly on all hunters. Please dispose of these carcasses properly.

Sgt. Keith Olson (Lake Superior Marine Unit) checked deer camps during the week. Success has been spotty and most hunters have reported seeing less deer than in years past. He investigated a baiting complaint north of Duluth, fielded questions on deer registration procedures, assisted a young hunter with a FAS field day, and assisted the sheriff’s office with a call in the Floodwood area.

CO Matt Miller (Lake Superior Marine Unit) worked inland deer season issues and responded to TIP calls. Processed, unregistered deer were discovered in some camps, and ATVs found operating in public waters while hunters were heading to their stands. A report of a deer wandering around Two Harbors with an arrow sticking out of its hip was received. Efforts to locate the deer failed. Questions were answered regarding trespass and baiting issues. Enforcement was action taken for big game and ATV violations.

CO Ter Meer (Lake Superior Marine Unit) spent the week on big game, small game, ATV, and commercial enforcement. Some commercial fishermen were checked. Assisted on some night and road hunting details. He spoke with a deer hunter with a wolf tag whose opportunity to harvest a wolf did not come until after the Northeast Zone had closed. He had a pack chase a deer in front of his stand. He made the correct choice and just watched, and they were the only wolves he had seen this season. Enforcement action was taken for shooting from the road, possession of loaded firearm in motor vehicle, and ATV violations.