The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is going to start conducting random roadside checks in 2012. Conservation officers will inspect trailers, boats and other vehicles to help stop the spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species. More decontamination units and watercraft inspectors will also be deployed at infested lakes and rivers around the state.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and sheriff's officials are stepping up efforts to keep boaters safe on lakes statewide as the 4th of July approaches. The officials are taking part in a nationwide effort called Operation Dry Water, which highlights the dangers of boating under the influence (BUI).

The bill allows the DNR to setup inspection stations and issue tougher fines to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive-species. Minnesota's 800,000 boaters would also be required to pass a training course. House lawmakers okayed the legislation Friday and Senators could vote on it this weekend.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says 20 percent of boaters screened this spring have violated laws to combat the spread of aquatic invasive species. The agency calls the rate unacceptable because the majority of violations could be avoided. DNR officers stepped up patrols last month and will continue through the summer.

The Department of Natural Resources says there's hope that a chemical might help stop the spread of the invasive aquatic species that is fast spreading in Minnesota lakes. The DNR treated Rose Lake in Otter Tail County last fall, and two divers who scoured the lake this week did not find any zebra mussels.

Cedar Towing and Auction faces a lawsuit alleging fraud and deceptive business practices. Currently the tow company is being investigated by police on whether the company violated city ordinances limiting towing fees.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is attempting to save bald eagles with a new bullet exchange program. The DNR has enlisted the help of outdoor retailer Cabelas to persuade deer hunters to use copper ammunition instead of lead -- because the lead fragments eagles can ingest eating the remains of deer will poison them.