District 4 – Walker area

Last updated: 2026-03-30

CO Michael Cross (Lake George) checked anglers, completed training, conducted equipment maintenance, and followed up on open cases.

CO Nick Baum (Park Rapids) patrolled the area for angling and off-road vehicle traffic. Baum reports ice conditions in the area are OK but wants to remind anglers to bring safety equipment with rapidly changing conditions. Paul Bunyan State Forest roads and ATV trails are closed and will be updated on the DNR website when they are open for motor vehicle traffic. Baum took enforcement action for operating a motor vehicle on posted closed forest roads.
CO Landyn Saewert (Wadena) spent the week patrolling area lakes for angling and trapping activities. He took several reports of fires. People are reminded to obtain a permit before burning. Other wildlife-related complaints were handled throughout the week.

CO Patrick McGowan (Cass Lake) patrolled area lakes for angling activity. Very few anglers are still fishing as ice conditions are poor in most areas. McGowan also assisted with a detail in the metro and completed annual training.

CO Jack Lien (Walker) conducted waterfowl training in the southeastern part of the state. The training plays a crucial role for newly hired COs as there are many regulations and laws to learn when it comes to waterfowl hunting. Additionally, Lien assisted with a public safety detail in the metro area over the weekend.

CO Corey Sura (Remer) assisted with training for the division’s most recent hires. It focused on waterfowl identification, laws, and enforcement techniques. Sura also worked a public safety detail at the State Capitol.

CO Levi Brown (Staples) focused on recreational vehicles this week with increased ATV activity. Brown also assisted local first responders on multiple unpermitted fires. Enforcement action was taken for burning violations.

ATV rec officer – vacant.