LHS students put studies to practical use in the field

by David Hill Editor An ambitious 5-year plan to improve access to a segment of northwestern Minnesota to deer hunters and outdoor enthusiasts got a big boost from a Lincoln High School robotics group. During a meeting of the Board of Education for School District 564, Thief River Falls, Dana Klos explained that the local chapter of Minnesota Deer Hunters had hit a snag in its plans to improve access into the Elm Lake Wildlife Management Area. The project included establishing trails and adding a turn around after a two and one-half mile ditch grade access into an area along County Ditch 27 in Marshall County. He explained that the area is a swampy area, thick with cover. A request to operate beyond the line of sight drones over the area was denied by the FAA. Klos wasn’t sure what to do, but then hit upon an idea - why not ask Lincoln High School students who can operate line of sight drones? He turned to Natasha Olsonawski. “The instructor you have is just marvelous,” said Klos of Olsonawski. Klos shared with members of the Board of Education copies of MDHA Whitetales, the official publication of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association. Inside the Summer 2024 edition is a story about the local chapter utilizing drones and youngsters from Lincoln High School in its ambitious project. Klos also noted that the Club and students received assistance from one-time Northland Community and Technical College instructor Zach Nicklin. Klos said they presented the project and a short video to deer hunters attending an annual convention and it generated a great deal of attention and excitement. Klos said the last paragraph of the story says it all: “Not only has the Thief River Falls Chapter members taken on a monumental five-year project that goes way beyond benefitting just deer hunters, it has assisted in potential development of careers for local kids. This technology is not in the future, it is now, and this experience will provide real field experience for the students as they prepare to enter this growing profession. Thanks to the TRF’s Chapter, these kids could be trend setters in a thriving new industry.” Klos said the purpose for his visit before the Board of Education was to tell them what a great teacher they have, but also to thank the students, and the Board of Education for letting the kids work with them. Board Chairman Ryan Walseth said he really appreciates seeing how kids are involved in the community, and appreciated the update.