DNR seeks input on establishing a waterfowl refuge near Deer Lake

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DNR seeks input on establishing a waterfowl refuge near Deer Lake
(Released June 24, 2010)



The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 10, to provide information and receive public input about a proposal to establish a waterfowl refuge in the Deer Lake area. The meeting will be at the Carpenter Town Hall, two miles east of Togo on Highway 1. Deer Lake is located between the communities of Togo and Effie in northeastern Itasca County.

“Minnesota has a great waterfowl hunting tradition,” said Perry Loegering, DNR area wildlife manager in Grand Rapids. “During the past decade or so, waterfowl movements through the state seem to have changed, however, reducing hunting opportunities in some locales such as the Deer Lake area. Although reasons for the changes are not well understood, waterfowl refuges are one tool that may improve local hunting.”

Hunting waterfowl is not allowed in a waterfowl refuge, nor is trespassing during the waterfowl hunting season. Refuges provide a place where waterfowl can rest and feed undisturbed during migration.   

“Ducks using a refuge often fly to lakes outside the refuge where they are available to hunters,” Loegering said. “Establishing a refuge in the Deer Lake area may help to attract and keep ducks in the area during the fall season.”