Minnesota’s Wild Elk Relocation: Details On DNR’s Game-Changing Conservation Move
Minnesota is on the brink of a wildlife revolution with plans to relocate wild elk to the northeast, promising thrilling eco-tourism fun! 🦌 #News #Minnesota #DNR
Elk Relocation Project Gains Momentum
ST. PAUL, MN – Minnesota is taking significant steps toward establishing a new wild elk herd in the northeastern part of the state. This ambitious project, first proposed over a decade ago, is now progressing rapidly with the recent hiring of two full-time elk specialists.
New Leadership for Elk Coordination
In a move to boost the project’s momentum, Kelsie LaSharr, a big game biologist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), has been promoted to the permanent position of elk coordinator. LaSharr’s role will be crucial in overseeing the establishment of Minnesota’s fourth wild elk herd.
Meanwhile, the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has brought on board Makenzie Henk, a wildlife biologist with experience studying Roosevelt elk in California. Henk, who previously worked with the Catalina Island Conservancy, will begin her role as the Fond du Lac elk biologist on July 29.
Collaborative Efforts and Funding
The project has garnered extensive support and collaboration. The Minnesota Legislature allocated $2.3 million for the project in 2023, and additional backing comes from the University of Minnesota, the federally funded Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, among others.
The new herd is planned to be located around the Fond du Lac reservation, encompassing areas such as Cloquet, Cromwell, Floodwood, and the St. Louis River. Initial plans call for the capture and relocation of elk from existing herds in northwestern Minnesota, with the first transfer expected in early 2026.
Elk Capture and Relocation Plans
The project aims to relocate 12 to 20 elk in the first year, with the process repeated annually until the new herd is self-sustaining. The animals will be sourced from two of the three existing herds in northwestern Minnesota. The goal is to establish a robust population that can withstand predation from wolves and bears.
Eco-tourism is expected to benefit from the presence of the new herd. Unlike fenced enclosures, these elk will roam freely, contributing to the region’s natural ecosystem.
Managing Existing Elk Populations
Part of LaSharr’s responsibilities includes maintaining elk population goals in northwestern Minnesota, where landowners have expressed mixed feelings due to crop damage caused by the animals.
Public Engagement and Future Studies
Public outreach is a critical component of the project. LaSharr will be engaging with various stakeholders, including counties, legislators, farmers, and conservation groups, to keep them informed about the project’s progress. She will also conduct webinars and release newsletters for the general public.
Additionally, a new elk movement study will commence in January, deploying tracking collars on several animals to gather data. This research will help refine strategies for capturing and relocating elk, ensuring their successful acclimation to new environments.
The Exciting Future of Elk in Minnesota
The initiative to establish a new elk herd in northeastern Minnesota represents a significant milestone in wildlife conservation. With dedicated leadership and widespread support, the project promises to enhance the state’s natural heritage for future generations.
Stay tuned for updates as Minnesota embarks on this exciting journey to expand its wild elk population.
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