DNR and Forest Service law enforcement staff work backcountry patrol in the BWCA

In his most recent publicly-shared report about what’s happening in the woods and on the water of Cook County lakes, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Kylan Hill reports taking a canoe trip into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness with other law enforcement officers.

The BWCA was very busy, Hill reports, with contacts made with people from all over the United States.

Hill teamed with other law enforcement officials, including an officer from the U.S. Forest Service who works on Superior National Forest, during the multi-day work detail in the BWCA. Hill said some visitors to the wilderness were found to be in violation of various offenses, including not having a fishing license or a BWCA permit in their possession.

Regarding outdoor recreation amongst those visiting the wilderness, Hill reports the fishing was “so-so” while they were on patrol with regard to those they encountered. However, “there were berries galore,” Hill reports, which makes the local conservation officer wonder how the upcoming bear-baiting and subsequent hunting season will go.

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Hill about his backcountry detail in the BWCA and other local outdoor news and information. Audio below.

Kalli Hawkins August 6, 2022