Minnesota Letters to the Editor: Defining ‘quality’ public lands: scrublands are better than subdivisions any day
Reader-submitted letters to the editor published in the Sept. 4, 2026 edition of Minnesota Outdoor News.
September 2, 2026
Commentary: Understanding Minnesota’s existing Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee
Minnesota has a long and proud tradition of volunteerism and grassroots community involvement, especially in conservation. Minnesotans care deeply about the lands, waters, wildlife, and natural resources that define our state.
This commitment has shaped many of Minnesota’s conservation successes – from the public leading the creation of the state’s Wildlife Area Management Area system 75 years ago to efforts that secured dedicated conservation funding. In recognition of this important history, the Minnesota DNR includes “we work with Minnesotans” as the opening of our mission statement. This tradition also explains interest in establishing a citizens conservation advisory council.
Commentary: Understanding Minnesota’s existing Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee Read More »
Illinois Trappers convention to be held Oct. 2-3
The Illinois Trappers Association will host its annual convention Oct. 2-3 at the Effingham County Fairgrounds in Altamont, Ill. Admission is free. Vendor buildings and trapping demonstrations will open starting at 8 a.m. both days.
Illinois Trappers convention to be held Oct. 2-3 Read More »
Evergreen Lake offers trophy saugeye, muskies for Illinois’ McLean County anglers
Evergreen Lake continues to offer central Illinois anglers a diverse fishery, with excellent opportunities for saugeye and muskies and more modest prospects for bass and crappies.
The 925-acre McLean County lake has long been known for producing trophy fish. While its bass and crappie populations have fluctuated, saugeye and muskies remain the stars of the fishery.
Evergreen Lake offers trophy saugeye, muskies for Illinois’ McLean County anglers Read More »
Missouri makes several changes to its deer seasons due to CWD
The Missouri Department of Conservation sent out a list of new rules for its deer seasons after taking public input into account. Many of the new regulations center around chronic wasting disease. Among the changes:
Missouri makes several changes to its deer seasons due to CWD Read More »
Illinois’ Outdoor Calendar
A look at upcoming outdoor-related events from across Illinois published in the Sept. 4, 2026 edition of Outdoor News.
Illinois’ Outdoor Calendar Read More »
Illinois Cuffs & Collars: Serious injury hanging tree stands in Union County
Illinois cuffs and collars are field reports from Conservation Police Officers. These reports are from the Sept. 4, 2026 edition of Outdoor News.
Illinois Cuffs & Collars: Serious injury hanging tree stands in Union County Read More »
Number of Minnesota small game hunters declined during ’25
The number of small game hunters in Minnesota in 2025 decreased 2% from 2024 and was 6% below the 10-year average. Overall, 223,740 small game licenses were sold for the 2025-26 hunting seasons, compared to the 10-year average of 237,867 small game licenses.
Number of Minnesota small game hunters declined during ’25 Read More »
Meet Jason Moeckel, the Minnesota DNR’s new Fish and Wildlife Division leader
For the past few weeks, Jason Moeckel has been tackling his new role as the Minnesota DNR Fish and Wildlife Division director after Kelly Straka stepped down from the job on Aug. 8.
“It’s been very exciting. It’s been a lot trying to absorb as much as I can. I’ve been getting briefed on a number of things and updates on various projects, activities, issues that we have that we’re managing as a division,” Moeckel said.
Meet Jason Moeckel, the Minnesota DNR’s new Fish and Wildlife Division leader Read More »
