[ST. PAUL, MN] – Before opening the 2022 pheasant hunting season this morning in Worthington, Governor Tim Walz today announced that Owatonna will host the 2023 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener. Explore Minnesota, the state’s tourism promotion office, coordinates each year with the Governor’s Office, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the host committee to put on the event celebrating the kickoff of the pheasant hunting season.

“I want to thank the community of Owatonna for their graciousness and generosity in agreeing to host the 2023 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Governor Walz. “As a former member of Congress representing Owatonna and southern Minnesota, I always look forward to an opportunity to highlight the vibrant communities and exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities in southern Minnesota. I know Owatonna will carry on the tradition of hosting a fantastic opener next year, just as Worthington and Nobles County have done this year.”

“The Owatonna area is a terrific place to pheasant hunt, so I’m excited the city will be hosting the 2023 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “With more than 80 wildlife management areas in the six-county area surrounding Owatonna, ample opportunities await pheasant hunters.”

The Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism submitted the application to host the 2023 opener. Owatonna was selected through an application process that considered available hunting land, event facilities, travel recreation opportunities and community support.

“We are very excited to have the opportunity to host the 2023 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener,” said Glenda Smith, Owatonna director of conventions and tourism. “Owatonna and Steele County have so much to be proud of. Coming together as a community to celebrate our area’s parks, trails and public hunting lands is a great way to share with others the unique assets our community possesses as a part of Minnesota. Recent developments in our downtown and soon-to-be complete high school have built much enthusiasm within our community, and we are ready to share it with others.”

The 2023 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener in Owatonna is scheduled for October 13-14.

The Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener was initiated by Governor Mark Dayton in 2011. Previous host communities include Montevideo (2011, 2016), Marshall (2012, 2017), Madelia (2013), Worthington (2014, 2022), Mankato (2015), Luverne (2018) and Austin (2019). The event features the many hunting, recreational, and travel opportunities that host communities have to offer visitors.

Located at the junction of Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 14 and U.S. Highway 218, Owatonna is the seat of Steele County government. With a population of 26,420, it is also the county’s largest city.