Family-Outdoors

By Tom Landwehr, commissioner of Department of Natural Resources Hunting and fishing are such a valued part of our Minnesota heritage that they are forever preserved privileges under the state constitution alongside protections for freedom of expression and religious liberty. Our outdoor traditions are a part of our culture. Preserving that culture is critical. Hunters and anglers are the fiercest advocates for fish and wildlife conservation. By way of hunting and license fees, and because of excise taxes on fishing rods and firearms, they also provide the economic base to manage and protect the natural habitat and wildlife we all value. Unfortunately, this important group of environmental advocates is a shrinking group. A smaller and smaller portion of our state’s population is participating in hunting and fishing. The declining trend may be rooted in an aging population, increased disconnection from the out-of-doors and lower participation rates among minorities – portions...

Pretty Boy and Pretty Girl Turkey Decoys made by Carry-Lite Decoys. (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) MADISON - The two most critical ingredients for a successful spring turkey hunt are a detailed hunting plan in one hand and a firm grip on firearm safety in the other, state recreation safety officials say. “Planning your turkey hunt is critical when two or more hunters are jointly hunting the same area – and then agree to separate if the birds are not spotted,” says Tim Lawhern, longtime hunter education administrator for the Department of Natural Resources and now administrator of DNR' s Enforcement and Science. Lawhern notes that accidents can happen when the plan is abandoned. “Soon, one hunter is stalking either the decoy or the call of the other hunter.” The best way to avoid this potentially deadly situation, he says, is to “have a clear understanding and agreement on the areas each hunter will hunt, and then stick to that plan.” Such a plan also will help hunte...

Image via Wikipedia When Minnesota’s firearms deer hunting season opens Saturday, Nov. 5, many people who would like to hunt won’t. Why? No one invited them. “A lot of men, women and children will be sitting on a couch instead of a stand because no one has offered to take them hunting,” said Jenifer Wical, a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) customer relations manager. “This year, we’re encouraging hunters to invite a buddy to camp because it is not always about the buck, it’s about friends, family and making memories that last a lifetime.” Years ago, it was more difficult to introduce someone new to hunting because of certain firearms safety requirements. Today, firearms safety is still required for those born after Dec. 31, 1979, but Minnesota offers a two-year exemption when certain safety precautions are followed. As a result, it’s easier to introduce someone new to hunting, even on the spur of the moment. “Many deer camps are changing,” said Wi...