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Boreal Community Media

Video: Duluth, Superior to Only Allow Local Residents Waterfront Access During Smelt Season

Apr 05, 2020 06:40AM ● By Editor

Watch the WDIO-TV Report here

Photo: WDIO-TV

From WDIO-TV - April 5, 2020

During a typical spring, Lake Superior and Duluth's Lester River is busy with smelt netters. Smelters typically wade into the water and, using nets, scoop the 6-9 inch long fish along beaches.

However this year, traveling for the season may be more difficult due to cities taking precautions during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Duluth officials said Friday they will only allow local residents access to beaches and waterfront areas in order to reduce crowds. The city recommends only participating with family members, in groups of ten or less, and standing at least six feet apart from other people.

The City of Superior will keep their beaches open to residents of Douglas County. Mayor Jim Payne told the Duluth News Tribune police officers will patrol beaches to assure all participants are local and practicing proper social distancing.

In Ashland, the city has closed off waterfront areas to everyone until at least April 24. 


To read the original story and read related reporting, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website. https://www.wdio.com/sports/duluth-superior-smelting/5691719/

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