Photo: KVLY

From the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - June 19, 2020

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has canceled its yearly live fleet auction in New Ulm scheduled for June 13. Instead, the auction will take place online via MinnBid (link is external), the state’s online auction website.

Lots of equipment will be available on a one-week rotation over seven to 14 weeks, depending on how many pieces of equipment are included in each lot. The DNR moved to an online auction in keeping with COVID-19 health and safety considerations.

“We are working with our partners at the Department of Administration to come up with a way to return to live sales that is safe for customers and staff,” said DNR fleet manager Paul Johnson. “For now, online sales are our best option.”

The DNR has 80 pieces of equipment that will be up for auction on MinnBid. To ensure the safety of staff and bidders, six to 12 pieces of equipment will be listed for a duration of one week, starting June 19. Auction lots will only be available for viewing by appointment on Tuesdays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. during the time they are listed. Appointments can be made by calling 507-233-1246.

Once a winning bid is submitted and accepted using the MinnBid website, the bidder will be able to schedule a time to pick up the equipment at the DNR South Region Headquarters office in New Ulm.

During inspections and equipment pick-ups, staff will be encouraged to wear cloth masks and will maintain social distance from the public. The public is also encouraged to wear masks when on site. Additionally, staff will wear gloves when handling any auction items and paperwork.

Following the online auction, if a successful bidder needs help loading equipment, staff will be able to help using a forklift, as they would at a live auction.

The DNR prepares equipment for auction by removing all state stickers, decals and registrations, washing and vacuuming the road vehicles, and addressing or making a note of any mechanical issues.

“DNR equipment auctions are a great way to find a new truck, trailer, or even a new fun way to get outdoors — like an ATV or snowmobile,” Johnson said. “Our goal is to sell equipment while it still has good life left in it. This presents the best value for the buyer, and for the DNR.”

Multiple lots are available for viewing and bidding online now at minnbid.org (link is external). Registration is required before inquiries or bids can take place via the MinnBid site. Head to minnbid.org/mobile/register (link is external) to register for an account.