State shutdown will affect local DNR services

If state government shuts down the end of the week because the governor and legislators can’t agree on a budget, many Department of Natural Resources services important to Cook County will shut down as well.

All state parks will close, including the four in Cook County. At this time, the DNR is continuing to accept reservations for July and beyond. The reservations system will likely suspend operations July 1. The processing and mailing of refunds would be suspended during this time as well.

If a shutdown occurs, DNR anticipates that park facilities will close at 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 30, pending any other direction from the courts. The grounds will be posted closed and buildings, restrooms and other facilities will be locked.

Sale of all fishing, hunting and trapping licenses, including online and telephone sales, will be suspended in the event of a shutdown. Likewise, no boat, ATV or other licenses will be sold.

State trails and water accesses will not be maintained and will not have restroom facilities or water service, but will be available for day use. Camping will not be allowed in state forest campgrounds and the area will be posted closed. Restroom facilities and water service will be unavailable.

Open burning permits will not be available; campfires may be permitted, if the county allows them. Volunteer activities will be suspended. Exceptions include citizens monitoring loon counting and precipitation recording. Classes taught by volunteers, such as firearms safety, will not take place.

Gov. Mark Dayton has submitted several DNR areas to the court for consideration as critical. These range from such activities as maintenance of nurseries and hatcheries to retaining a complement of Conservation Officers.

Until the court decides, it is unknown which DNR services will be considered “critical.” DNR anticipates the majority of their services will not be operating, and most of the staff will be laid off.