Minnesota DNR Conservation Officers Report Busy Week

Conservation officers address ice safety, ATV violations, and other outdoor activities across the state

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:37pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a fishing rod repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the diverse outdoor activities monitored by Minnesota conservation officers.Minnesota conservation officers work to balance public safety and outdoor recreation through enforcement and education.Wheaton Today

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conservation officers across the state have been busy addressing a variety of outdoor activities and enforcement issues over the past week. From monitoring ice conditions and angling activity to responding to ATV violations and illegal burning, the officers have been working to ensure public safety and compliance with state regulations.

Why it matters

As the winter season transitions into spring, the work of Minnesota's conservation officers becomes increasingly important. They play a crucial role in educating the public, enforcing laws, and responding to a wide range of outdoor-related incidents to protect both natural resources and public safety.

The details

Conservation officers reported addressing hazardous ice conditions, with several noting that rapidly deteriorating ice has put an end to the ice fishing season in many areas. Officers also focused enforcement efforts on ATV and off-road vehicle activity, including monitoring closed forest roads and trails, as well as addressing expired registrations and other violations. Additionally, the officers responded to various wildlife-related complaints, such as reports of incidentally taken muskrats, requests for permits for found deer skulls, and wanton waste or litter of snow geese.

  • The weekly conservation officer reports were last updated on March 30, 2026.

The players

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Minnesota's natural resources, including enforcement of outdoor recreation laws and regulations.

Minnesota Conservation Officers

Law enforcement officers employed by the Minnesota DNR to enforce laws and regulations related to hunting, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities in the state.

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What they’re saying

“Hams would like to remind anglers to be careful on the ice with accesses deteriorating.”

— CO Tony Hams, Warroad North

“Stringer wants to emphasize safety as open water, shifting ice, and warm weather could result in catastrophic results.”

— CO Bobby Stringer, Thief River Falls West

“Goodman encourages folks to check local burning restrictions before having any type of fire.”

— CO Andrew Goodman, Perham

“Baum wants to remind anglers to bring safety equipment with rapidly changing conditions.”

— CO Nick Baum, Park Rapids

“People are reminded to obtain a permit before burning.”

— CO Landyn Saewert, Wadena

What’s next

Conservation officers will continue to monitor outdoor activities and enforce regulations across Minnesota as the transition to spring progresses. They will also work to educate the public on safety and legal requirements for activities like ATV use, fishing, and burning.

The takeaway

Minnesota's conservation officers play a vital role in protecting the state's natural resources and ensuring public safety during outdoor activities. Their work spans a wide range of issues, from addressing hazardous ice conditions to responding to wildlife-related incidents and enforcing regulations on recreational vehicles and burning.