News

Now is the time of year for anglers and hunters to buy new fishing and hunting licenses.

Hunters harvested 158,678 deer during the 2023 hunting season, a lower total harvest than in recent years.

Starting March 5th, Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military – at home or abroad – are now eligible to enroll directly in VA health care.This means that Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 are eligible to enroll in VA health care without first applying for VA disability compensation benefits.Additionally, Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States are eligible to enroll.This expansion also covers many Veterans who never deployed as a part of a conflict but were exposed to toxins or hazards while serving in the U.S.Specifically, any Veteran who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity (TERA) – at home or abroad – is eligible for VA health care.

Anglers will have new opportunities to claim the glory of catching a Minnesota state record fish.Starting March 1, anglers can earn catch-and-release records for 18 species beyond the four current species that are recognized, a change the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is making in response to the increasing popularity of catch-and-release fishing and to raise the profile of native rough fish.“Angler stories and photos of the huge fish caught from Minnesota’s lakes, rivers and streams generate major excitement,” said Mandy Erickson, fisheries program consultant.

As the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources works to continue creating a workforce that more closely resembles the diverse communities it serves, the agency is holding a pair of open house-style career fairs next week.The first is set for Wednesday, March 6 from 5-7 p.m.

As farmers gear up for the growing season, the Land Stewardship Project (LSP) invites them to attend the 2nd Annual Regional Food Forum, which will focus on farm-to-school initiatives and expanding local food markets.