Wildlife Drive open at Roseau River Wildlife Management Area

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News Releases
Wildlife Drive open at Roseau River Wildlife Management Area
(Released July 14, 2010)


The 29-mile “Wildlife Drive” for vehicular access to the Roseau River Wildlife Management Area (WMA), 20 miles northwest of Roseau, will be open from July 17-25 and weekends thereafter through August 22. 

The drive traverses wetland, woodland, brushland, and farmland habitat, allowing visitors ample opportunity for wildlife viewing. Roseau River WMA is one of 45 viewing stops along the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail. 

Along the drive people may also encounter trumpeter swans, loons, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, great blue herons, eagles, Canada geese, a variety of ducks and other water birds, LeConte’s and Nelson’s sharp-tailed sparrows, black bears, deer, beaver, otter, red fox, gray wolf, and moose.

 The pools have been known to offer some spectacular northern pike fishing opportunities throughout the year. Visitors typically fish along the dike roads. When the dike roads are closed to motorists, visitors often bike to Pool 2 or Pool 1 West from the parking areas. Only during the waterfowl hunting season may motorboats of 10 horsepower or less be used on the Roseau River WMA.   

The recommended entry point is the main dike road, one and three quarter miles south of the WMA headquarters on Roseau County Road 3. Motorists are urged to use caution because of narrow roads, soft shoulders, deep ditches and two-way traffic. The speed limit on all WMA roads is 20 mph. Inclement weather may require closing the drive if road conditions deteriorate.  Only motor vehicles licensed for use on public highways are legal to operate on the WMA wildlife drive. 

A bird list, maps, fishing regulations and additional information about the Roseau River WMA is available by calling 218-463-1130.