Moose Population Stable

From WTIP Radio: The Department of Natural Resources reports the Northeastern Minnesota moose population remains close to last year's survey -- 7,600 animals. But department officials warn there appears to be a slow decline on the horizon. Mark Lenarz, DNR moose wildlife researcher said there is a historically low calf survival rate, declining hunter-success ratio and a higher than normal non-hunting mortality rate. Lenarz said these facts all point to a downward trend in the moose population. Moose remain abundant enough to merit a bulls-only season for a limited number of hunters, but the success ratio is down. The percentage of hunters who took a bull moose was down from 61% in 2001 to 45% in last year's hunt. The non-hunting mortality rate is 17% -- nationally the figure is between 8 and 12% of moose dying from causes other than hunting.

Passports or Passcards Required by June 1, 2009 for Canadian Travel

Beginning June 1, 2009, US citizens returning from Canada will be required to present a travel document to return to the states. Travel documents include US Passport or US Passport Card or Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program Card. This change is part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and the website is http://travel.state.gov/ .

A Passport Card is less expensive than a Passport and should take about 3 weeks to process and is good for 10 years. The same application used for requesting a passport is used for the passcard, just check a different box on the application. This application can be picked up at your local post office and they should be able to answer any questions you have. The cost for applying is $35 for a youth under the age of 16 and $45 for a first time application for an adult.

Groups of US children ages 16 through 18, when traveling with a school or religous group, social organization or sports team will be able to enter, with adult supervision, with orginal documents of their birth certificates or other proof of US citizenship.

To ensure a good trip into Canada, make sure everyone in your group has their paperwork well in order before your canoe trip or fishing trip.

Remember, you still need a Remote Access Border Pass, Canadian Camping or entry permits and Canadian Fishing licenses. Depending upon where you enter, you may also need a BWCA entry permit.

Sled Dogs for the winter

As you know from reading prior blogs, Erik is spending this winter working with and guiding dog sleds this winter. He is at White Wilderness in Ely and sent this note and pictures...

"Hope all is well. I just wanted to send off a few pictures of the dogs that drag me around everyday. It is hard enough to get pictures of the dogs, and even harder to get pictures with me in them. These will give you all an idea of the beauty I experience on a daily basis."

Little Vince Guide Service

Many of our guests take a day or 1/2 day guided fishing trip with Little Vince Ekroot. Little Vince has a new website at lvguide.net.