[buktruk]

I was talking to a few guys I went to school with and they were telling me that they asked a DNR officer about hang on treestands on state land. According to the rule book, they are supposed to be removed 1 day after the last day of hunting, and supposedly the Officer told them that if stands were left up after that they were considered abandoned and free for the taking. That seemed odd to me, I would think that would be stealing, but I wondered is that actually the law? Other wise if someone left there stand there forever when would it be okay to remove it? Just wondering?

 

[boehr]

My opinion and how it is handled in District 12. If a stand is left it still is not free for just anyone to take. My officers will watch the stand next year an attempt to catch someone in it. There is no law that makes property become someone else's property. Even if an officer removes and confiscates the stand that officer would still have to file papers with the court before the stand became property of the state. A private individual could not take property of another and make it theirs. You were exactly correct when you though that seemed odd and thought that would be stealing. Good call on your part.

 

[buktruk]

That's what I thought. I will let them know next time I talk to them. Thanks

 

[baydog2]

Boehr, one questions on the stuff that is confiscated and kept by the department is it sold or auctioned off. I know the local police agency has an auction on bikes and such. Thanks BAYDOG

 

[boehr]

Sold to dealers, normally about once a year. It used to be an auction to individuals but firearm laws and drunks showing up at auctions changed that. Now stuff is sold in lots and only dealers bid on it. If the stuff is junk, then it is just destroyed.

 

[baydog2]

Thanks Boehr

 

[answerguy8]

In a totally unrelated subject I'll be having a garage sale with dozens of tree stands for sale this fall.