Governor Mark Dayton has announced that the 2011 Minnesota Governor's Deer Hunting Opener will be held November 4-5 in Biwabik, in northeastern Minnesota. The event is coordinated by the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association in cooperation with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Explore Minnesota Tourism. It showcases Minnesota's tradition of deer hunting and its positive economic impact.

"I am delighted to continue the tradition of the Governor's Deer Opener, and to announce that it will take place in Biwabik this year. The event is a great opportunity to promote an activity that nearly 500,000 Minnesotans enjoy every year."

The Governor's Deer Opener focuses on educating youth about hunting, promoting safe hunting practices, and celebrating the long-held tradition of hunting in Minnesota. The event began in 2003 and is held at a different location around the state each year. This is the first year it will be held in Biwabik, a community on the Minnesota Iron Range, a unique area known for its natural resources and wildlife.

Minnesota has a rich hunting heritage. It's a favorite fall activity in many families and part of the culture of many communities. There are nearly half-a-million deer hunters in Minnesota. Deer hunting generates an estimated $263 million in retail sales every year. Economic activity related to deer hunting supports nearly 5,300 jobs in Minnesota, according to a 2007 report published by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.