CO Sean Williams (Ely 1) reports ATV activity was higher over the weekend, although rainy weather and cool temps meant mostly Class 2 machines were seen. Ice on the smaller lakes were starting to show signs of backing away from shore and most of the larger lakes are now snow free. Violations included: Fail to display ATV registration, and operating an aeration system without a permit.

CO Mary Manning (Hovland) checked anglers on Lake Superior tributaries and near their mouths. Recent rain and snowmelt is helping clear rivers of ice but water temperatures are still cold and fish are scarce. Officer Manning seized an accidentally taken otter, issued car kill permit and took reports of washouts on area forest roads. Drivers of state forest roads are urged to use caution as quickly melting snowpack inland is overwhelming some culvert pipes and flowing over road surfaces causing some instability of roads.

CO Anthony Bermel (Babbitt) spent time storing winter equipment and readying station watercraft and ATV. Assistance was provided to a neighboring officer on an ongoing investigation. Enforcement action for decorative tree theft and traffic violations is pending. Fish run was monitored. Ice fishing finally has come to a close for the season. Many people are anxious for the ATV season to be underway, but please wait until the trails are open to prevent resource and trail damage.

CO David Schottenbauer (Silver Bay) finished up a trapping complaint this week, as well as some training in the Metro with other allied agencies for public unrest response.

CO Kylan Hill (Tofte) reports another week of slow fishing reports on Lake Superior tributaries, but anglers are still trying their luck. A local angler predicts steelhead madness will be upon us in two weeks. Hill also began patrolling for beaver trapping activity as water has begun flowing. Hopefully trappers can get some trapping time in before the season closes.

CO Don Murray (Two Harbors) worked spring fish run activities and Lake Superior stream fishing. High water continues to be a challenge for spring fisherman. Murray also assisted with water survival training at the State Patrol academy.