In the wake of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s Stay at Home Executive Order, numerous constituents expressed their concerns with U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) about its impact on the state’s outdoor recreation traditions, their livelihoods, and the economy.
“Every year, after the long and harsh months of winter, Minnesotans look forward to heading into the great outdoors to cast their lines or pitch a tent. As we find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic, I know Minnesotans are especially looking forward to this tradition to relieve stress, find comfort in nature, and spend precious time with loved ones,” Rep. Stauber said during a May conference call with his constituents.
“Unfortunately, in the days and weeks leading up to Fishing Opener Weekend, I have heard from many who are concerned about their ability to partake in these favorite pastimes because of Governor Walz’s Stay at Home Executive Order,” he said.
During the call, Rep. Stauber heard from Liz Rammer, president and chief executive officer of Hospitality Minnesota; Bill and Tom Dougherty, owners of Rainy Lake Houseboats; Matt Kilian, president of Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce; Alissa Boser, owner of Pete’s Retreat; Blayne Hall, owner of Williams & Hall Outfitters; and others.
“It was important for me to host this call today because I share my constituents’ concerns and I wanted to give them a platform for their voices to be heard,” said Rep. Stauber. “It is my hope that Governor Walz hears these valid concerns and crafts a better plan that meets the needs of those living, recreating and working in northeast Minnesota.”
The congressman also recently sent a letter to Gov. Walz urging him to allow Minnesotans access to overnight campsites ahead of the state’s 2020 fishing opener, which was set for May 9, and to issue further guidance.
“Although we find ourselves in an unprecedented global pandemic, Minnesotans still have the right to fish,” wrote Rep. Stauber, noting that fishing license purchases are up 41 percent from this time last year. “Folks can fish all day and return to their campsite while keeping a proper social distance from their neighbors.”
Rep. Stauber also sent a May 7 letter to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) requesting that citations not be issued to Minnesotans who choose to share a boat with someone outside of their household.
“While the DNR has issued guidance on the matter, I believe assessing fines would create an unnecessary financial burden and exacerbate the economic hardship experienced by many Minnesotans,” he wrote.