DNR Rules Against Minnesota Bear Researcher

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The Department of Natural Resources has affirmed its decision to deny a permit to a researcher who gained fame by putting radio collars on black bears in northern Minnesota.

In a decision announced Wednesday, DNR administrator Kent Lokkesmoe backed an administrative law judge who ruled in May that the state agency had the authority to refuse to renew Lynn Rogers' permit.

The DNR cited concerns about public safety, conduct it considered unprofessional, and questions about the validity of Rogers' research.

Lokkesmoe's order says Rogers can continue to feed and interact with bears and conduct education, but he can't radio-collar them without a permit.

The DNR says Rogers can't place web cameras in bear dens either.

Rogers says he expected the decision and plans to appeal.