The DNR is surveying elk by airplane for the first part of this month.
According to a release, airplane surveys over the first two weeks of February will monitor elk populations in the Kittson County and Grygla elk ranges.
“We currently have sufficient snow cover to start our elk surveys,” said Doug Franke, Thief River Falls area wildlife supervisor and elk survey coordinator.
Survey information helps guide the DNR with future elk harvest regulations.
The surveys are conducted on an annual basis, weather permitting.
DNR pilots will fly surveys during daylight hours at an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet.
The DNR is asking for the public’s help for those who have recently seen elk in their area.
The Karlstad area wildlife office can be reached at (218)436-2427, the Thief Lake Wildlife Management Area can be reached at 218-222-3747, and the Thief River Falls area wildlife office can be reached at (218)219-8587.
The public can also document their observations on the new elk sightings tool on the DNR website.
The DNR’s elk management page can also provide additional information on the history of the state’s elk population.
