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Commissioners discuss DNR plan to authorize rifle zones alongside shotgun deer zones; no action taken
Summary
Pipestone County commissioners discussed a pending DNR/legislative change that could allow rifle-authorized zones in addition to shotgun-only zones and agreed to consider public input early next year; no ordinance or vote was adopted.
Commissioners discussed a prospective change to deer-hunting zones that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the legislature are considering, which could allow rifle-authorized zones in areas that are currently shotgun-only.
One commissioner said the issue is "all over the map" among counties and recommended holding public input sessions so sportsmen can present their views; another commissioner suggested waiting until after the new year and after DNR issues formal notices. Commissioners noted the DNR will notify counties by March 1 of options to adopt or decline model ordinances and that a county decision would be required during 2026 if the state follows through. The sheriff’s office indicated enforcement would remain a county sheriff responsibility for trespass or compliance issues.
No formal action or ordinance vote was taken; commissioners suggested inviting sportsmen’s groups to a January meeting or accommodating public comment at a regular meeting outside standard working hours to encourage attendance. The board left the matter for future consideration when the DNR releases model ordinance language.
