DNR appreciates waterfowl hunter input, continues to take comments (2005-05-03)

Thoughtful suggestions, opinions and questions about how to improve waterfowl habitat abounded as hunters and conservationists gathered at public meetings across the state last week.

About 650 people attended the 18 meetings, held simultaneously on April 28. Officials from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which organized the event, said they were pleased with the turnout and the discussion.

"It's heartening to see so much knowledge of waterfowl issues," said John Guenther, chief of the DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife. "This type of involvement is crucial to finalizing and implementing the duck recovery plan. "Ultimately, we need support and partnerships to improve waterfowl habitat."

A compilation of comments and results of surveys taken at the meetings will be available in the coming weeks. These discussions, along with previous hunter opinion surveys, will guide future regulations and complete the development of the duck recovery plan.

Topics of discussion at each location were varied, according to area wildlife managers who conducted the meetings. Among the most discussed topics were: structuring seasons to maximize ice-free hunting opportunities, providing more rest areas for migrating ducks, water quality improvement, spinning wing decoys and wildlife lake management.

Those who were unable to attend the meetings are encouraged to comment by e-mail at waterfowl@dnr.state.mn.us.

Printed material that was available at the meetings will be posted online at www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Copies of the 25-minute video presentation are available to conservation clubs upon request.

"We needed spirited, diverse discussions to help guide efforts to improve the state's duck hunting and keep a spotlight on these important issues," Guenther said. "We got exactly that and we're very grateful to everyone who participated."

Click Here To Return To The Previous Page