FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Matt Privratsky 651-296-6860
February 6, 2013
MN Moose Population Declines 50 percent, Rep. Falk Supports Swift Action
ST. PAUL, MN - The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced today that it will not open a 2013 moose hunting season or consider opening future season until the population recovers. The moose population declined 35 percent from last year and 52 percent since 2010.
Rep. Andrew Falk (DFL- Murdock) is glad to see the swift response.
“As an avid sportsman, I understand how important it is to properly manage our wildlife populations across our state not just for the near term but for future generations. This dramatic decrease is alarming to say the least. Right now, it is important to remove any excess pressure on our moose population until we understand what is causing the decline."
Based on the aerial survey conducted in January, the new population estimate is 2,760 animals, down from 4,230 in 2012. The population estimate was as high as 8,840 as recently as 2006.
To help solve why moose are rapidly dying, the DNR is leading the largest and most high-tech multi-partner moose research effort ever initiated.
Starting in January, wildlife researchers began fitting 100 moose in northeastern Minnesota with GPS tracking and data collection collars. This multi-year research project will investigate the causes of adult moose mortality, calf mortality, calf survival, moose use of existing habitat and habitat quality. To date, 92 collars have been placed on moose in the Grand Marais and Isabella areas.
Throughout the legislative session, Rep. Falk encourages all constituents to contact him directly with any questions, comments, or concerns on any legislative issue. Rep. Falk can be reached by phone at (651) 296-4228, (888) 682-1388 or by email at rep.andrew.falk@house.mn. You can sign up to receive email updates from Rep. Falk by going to www.house.mn/17a
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