Controversial bear researcher's attorney says no permit needed

An administrative hearing on the research methods of controversial black bear researcher Lynn Rogers will continue this week.

Last year the state Department of Natural Resources did not renew Rogers' research permit to place tracking collars on bears near Ely and web cams in their dens. Agency officials argue that, by feeding bears out of his hand, Rogers created a public safety hazard.

After Rogers challenged that decision in court, the two sides agreed to a hearing before an administrative law judge.

Rogers' attorney argued that since he doesn't possess or control the bears he studies, and since it is not illegal to feed bears in Minnesota, Rogers should not be required to obtain a DNR permit.

Chief Administrative Law Judge Tammy Pust disagreed. On Tuesday, Pust denied Rogers' request for a verdict against the department, ruling that evidence suggests Rogers does exert some control over the bears.

Rogers will present his side this week. After the judge makes her recommendation, a DNR employee not associated with the dispute will make the agency's final decision.