Weekly CO report

District 8 - Duluth area

CO Derek Peterlin (Brookston) reports that with decreased angling activity on inland lakes, he shifted his focus to recreational vehicles and angling in open water on the St. Louis River Estuary. Fishing reports were poor. He responded to grass fire incidents and open-burning violations. He wants to remind people to obtain the proper permits and take all necessary precautions to prevent fires from spreading in the drier conditions.

CO Tony Elwell (Cloquet) participated in tactical flight officer training this week. A permitted fire that got out of control was investigated. North Shore stream and shore angling patrols were conducted this week as well. Salmon and steelhead are staging outside river mouths. It will not be long until smelt start their run.

CO Mikeena Wehr (Carlton) spent time this week working ATV/OHM and sport fishing enforcement. An ATV safety open house was attended. Time was spent responding to and investigating fires in the area. As a reminder, current fire danger and burning restrictions can be found on the DNR website.

CO Aimee Hand (Willow River) monitored state forests for activity this week. The ice is almost completely off smaller area lakes and pulling away from the shorelines on larger lakes. An outreach event for youth ATV riders was attended in Moose Lake.

CO Gabriel Soriano (Hinckley) worked with Fisheries and the Pine County agencies to investigate potential wetland violations as well as address concerns of structures reportedly being built on state property. He also took time to investigate some discrepancies from this past deer-hunting season, following up on some reported issues from hunters. Time was also spent preparing watercraft and ATVs for potential warmer weather in the future. People are encouraged to keep an eye on the weather and plan their outdoor trips and adventures accordingly.

CO Ben Karon (Pine City) continued monitoring local fishing activity. Extra patrol was focused in the Chengwatana State Forest, where people have been shooting and removing the lock on the main gate. The main road continues to be closed. Time was spent on ATV patrol and community outreach events.

Duluth West vacant.

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