Three Rivers Park District chosen to host Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener

For the first time, the Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener will be in the Twin Cities metro area.

Tuesday, the state announced that Three Rivers Park District has been chosen to host this year’s event, which is aimed at recognizing and celebrating the state’s deer hunting opportunities and traditions. Specifically, Elm Creek Park Reserve, a 4,900-acre park within the Three Rivers Park District, will be the site of the 2022 event.

Among the plans for this year’s event are a deer management listening session on Nov. 3, a hunters’ reception also on Nov. 3 and, of course, the opening day hunt, which will also feature an “All About Deer” program at Eastman Nature Center.

“Minnesota is home to top-notch public lands and fantastic outdoor recreation opportunities across the entire state,” Gov. Tim Walz said in a statement. “I look forward to celebrating the time-honored deer hunting tradition so many Minnesotans look forward to each year.”

“About 400,000 Minnesotans deer hunt each year,” Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen added. “I am excited to welcome those hunters to deer camp, whether their camp is in the farmland of southern Minnesota, the Northwoods, or near the Twin Cities Metro Area. And, I look forward to again opening the season with a listening session to hear what’s on hunters’ minds as they head to deer camp.”

The governor’s opener began 20 years ago as a way to highlight Minnesota’s white-tailed deer hunting tradition. In addition to that, it also provides a chance to discuss deer management, promote outdoor skills, recreation and safety, and bring attention to tourism and the economic benefits of hunting.

“The location of this year’s Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener provides an opportunity to showcase the amazing Three Rivers Park District, where there are many outstanding opportunities for outdoor recreation,” said Lauren Bennett McGinty, executive director of Explore Minnesota, the state’s tourism office. “Across Minnesota, deer hunting helps to extend tourism beyond the busy summer and fall color seasons, and the dollars spent by deer hunters support local businesses, which are essential to the overall economic health of our state.”

“Three Rivers Park District is excited to host the 2022 Governor’s Deer Hunting Opener,” John Moriarty, Three Rivers Park District’s senior manager of wildlife, added. “We appreciate the opportunity to highlight our long-standing and effective deer management program. Special archery and shotgun hunts are important deer management tools in our parks and provide opportunities for hunters who do not have private property or the time to travel ‘up north’ to hunt.”