However, just because the statewide restrictions are lifted -- the Department of Natural Resources is reminding everyone that local areas, counties or municipalities may have specific regulations that you still need to adhere to.

Lack of rain, unusually warm temperatures and strong winds have raised the risk of dangerous, out-of-control fires.

The Department of Natural Resources is auctioning rights to prospect and mine for metallic minerals on close to 64,000 acres in northeastern Minnesota, in Aitkiin, St. Louis and Lake counties, the Associated Press reports.

Minnesota's fishing and hunting license fees haven't changed in 10 years. The Department of Natural Resources is pushing legislators to raise the fees during the next legislative session. If an increase is not passed, the Associated Press reports there will be deep cuts to popular programs.

Thirteen counties will be removed from burning restrictions on Friday. Restrictions will remain in many central and northern counties until safe burning conditions prevail.

The agency has banned burning without a permit in 35 counties, and more counties will see restrictions early next week, as officials try to limit any damage from spring wildfires.

Fire investigators say a blaze that destroyed 11 homes and damaged several dozen other structures in the northwest town of Karlstad this month was probably arson. The Department of Natural Resources is still investigating and offering a $6,000 reward.

The state sold 3,000 fewer waterfowl stamps this year compared to last. The Department of Natural Resources says they're not sure why -- especially this year -- when duck populations are up and the season opened a week earlier.