Board Asks DNR To Start On Tree Stand Rules

It looks like the state Natural Resources Board might let hunters keep tree stands on state land.

The board has asked Department of Natural Resources staff to begin drafting a scope statement for rules that would allow hunters to leave stands on DNR-managed land overnight.

The agency currently allows tree stands on its lands but hunters must remove them at the end of each day. DNR officials said that allowing stands overnight would be convenient for hunters but could create the impression that hunters have staked out areas and lead to conflicts.

It’s not clear when the DNR plans to complete the scope statement. Gov. Scott Walker must approve it before the Natural Resources Board can give the agency the green light to draft full rules.