Moose hunting returns to northern Minnesota

Against the wishes of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, moose are being hunted in the state for the first time since 2012.

State and tribal leaders suspended moose hunting for the last three years after a sharp drop in the moose population.

There are currently an estimated 4,000 moose in the state, down from 8,840 in 2006.

As concerns about the health of the herd continue, the DNR has not authorized a hunt again this year. But three Native American bands are utilizing their right to hunt moose in northern Minnesota as described in an 1854 treaty. Twenty-five moose have already been killed by the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The Bois Forte and Grand Portage bands are planning to harvest five bulls each before the end of the year.

MPR's Phil Picardi discussed the planned hunt with Seth Moore, director of biology and environment for the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Click on the audio player above to hear their conversation. ...