Weekly CO report

District 10 - Mille Lacs area

CO Gregory Verkuilen (Garrison) worked deer-hunting violations that included illegal stands, reckless shooting, and late hunting. Anglers and waterfowl hunters were still getting use out of boat landings despite most docks having been removed for winter. Trappers were enjoying ice-free conditions as pelts were gradually priming up.

CO Victoria Griffith (Isle) worked fall hunting activity. Firearm deer hunters reported mixed success throughout the week. Several complaints were followed up on that included dumping of deer carcasses, ATVs operating on closed trails and disrupting hunters, and a lack of blaze orange/pink. Enforcement action was taken on violations encountered.

CO Joseph Scholz (Malmo) continued to focus on deer-hunting activity. Hunting activity dropped along with temperatures, though some hunters in the area still found success in finding the elusive buck. TIP calls were handled regarding shooting after hours, hunters without blaze orange, and dogs chasing deer. Enforcement action was taken for hunting big game without a license, failure to validate a site tag, and failure to register deer before butchering. As temperatures continue to drop, be sure to plan for inclement outdoor weather and wear proper clothing.

CO Nate Benkofske (McGregor) checked deer and waterfowl hunters in the area. Calls of late shooting and lack of blaze orange were investigated. Benkofske also investigated trespassing complaints.

CO Dan Starr (Onamia) worked a busy deer season week with what appeared to be more hunters afield than usual. Trespass issues and neighborhood disputes were handled. Areas baited for deer to baffle Starr as fines are hefty and forfeiting a deer rifle is never fun for the violators. Loaded guns were found in vehicles, as were untagged deer. COs Ulrich and Fogarty assisted Starr with some remote area checks via off-road bikes. Starr also assisted a younger, novice hunter by letting him hunt in his personal deer stand in hopes he would harvest a deer. The beginner got ?buck fever? and missed the deer.

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