CO Darin Fagerman (Grand Marais) was called out to investigate a series of wildland arson fires from north of Lake Winnibigoshish all the way back toward Grand Rapids. If you saw anything suspicious north of U.S. Highway 2 in Itasca County from the late afternoon of April 29 to the early morning hours of April 30, you are urged to call the arson hotline at 1-800-723-2020. You may be eligible for a reward for information leading to the identification of those responsible. Wildland fires can lead to catastrophic consequences for firefighters and emergency responders, as well as property and home owners. If you saw something, say something.

CO Mary Manning (Hovland) checked area lakes and patrolled area forest roads. Ice is melting and things are looking promising for opener, although some road washouts may be problematic. The officer assisted with ATV safety field day for area students, checked steelhead anglers and issued a possession permit for a road kill bear. A lost ATV operator was guided back to his cabin after being stopped for no registration on his machine. He tried dropping the name of the local officer, whom he didn't realize he was speaking with, before being issued a citation and sent on his way.

CO David Schottenbauer (Silver Bay) saw tributary river activity explode during the week. Area lakes are still ice-covered but wind and heat are doing their jobs. The area is very dry, and windy weather makes for prime spring fire danger.

CO Don Murray (Two Harbors) monitored spring beaver trapping and stream trout fishing activities. Fire danger remains high in the area until significant rainfall occurs. Some larger lakes are still holding ice while smaller lakes and ponds are now ice-free.

CO Sean Williams (Ely #1) reports extreme fire conditions continued over most of the north with a combination of very dry fuels and strong winds. He and local officers spent the week investigating several fires in the region. He also attended training in St. Paul for the state?s updated computer dispatching system.

CO Anthony Bermel (Babbitt) worked ATVs, trapping, and the spring fish run. Enforcement action included allowing illegal juvenile operation of an ATV and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.