DNR aviation section report

[Lee Borgersen]

Last updated: 2013-01-29

                      DNR aviation section report

CO Pilot Tom Buker (New Ulm) flew for the moose capture in the Grand Marais area, where 110 moose are being fitted with radio tracking and data gathering collars as part of a study.

NR Pilot John Heineman (Bemidji) started the moose capture out of the Grand Marais area. The goal is to capture 75 cows and 25 bulls and fit them with GPS collars. Heineman also flew a wolf telemetry flight and prepared for the upcoming elk survey in the northwest. Aircraft maintenance was also addressed.

NR Standby Pilot Brad Maas flew three days of wolf telemetry. Twelve wolf packs were located, and the helicopter was used to circle overhead to get an accurate count on pack numbers. Some radio collared wolves were found by themselves. Three packs were flown twice to verify actual numbers. Aircraft maintenance issues were also attended to.

Stand by Pilot Bob Geving worked fisher and sturgeon telemetry, creel survey, and fish shelter counts. Geving also assisted with transporting aircraft about for maintenance reasons.