District 10 - Mille Lacs area

CO Gregory Verkuilen (Garrison) checked anglers, ATV traffic, and opening weekend turkey hunters. Aquatic invasive species were checked as boats were getting moved around and docks were getting installed. Verkuilen also attending training and monitored the fish run.

CO Victoria Griffith (Isle) monitored area trapping, ATVing, turkey hunting, and angling activities. Enforcement action was taken on bowfishing violations, angling without a license, and several ATV violations. Griffith spent time doing minnow retailer inspections and assisted with a local ATV safety class. Assistance was given to other local law enforcement agencies.

CO Joseph Scholz (Malmo) patrolled for anglers and hunters as turkey season started. Rain and cooler weather kept activity levels low, though more people were beginning to start angling and suckers were beginning to run in streams and rivers. Scholz also worked on some trapping cases, including the successful release of an incidentally caught swan. Enforcement action was taken for operating an ATV without lights, allowing unlawful youth operation of an ATV, and angling without a license. As lake enthusiasts start to get boats out for the year, they are reminded to be sure to check for safety equipment before launching and make sure to renew registration if needed.

CO Nate Benkofske (McGregor) checked anglers and turkey hunters in the area. Wetland damage complaints were investigated. Various ATV violations were found and addressed.

CO Dan Starr (Onamia) worked spring fish run activities and found some untagged minnow traps. Incidental catches of otter, from spring beaver trapping, seemed to be on the increase with otter populations up. Enforcement action was taken for illegal camping in a WMA. Starr also covered a firearms safety class in the Pierz Station and recognized three volunteer instructors for 30 years of service. A litter case on state forest land was also investigated and is pending enforcement action.

CO Ashley Whiteoak (Aitkin) spent time patrolling for fishing, turkey hunting, trapping, and ATVing activity. She assisted with an ATV safety training class. She also assisted the Aitkin County Sheriff?s Office with a domestic assault call.

Wealthwood vacant.

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