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DNR: After Geocaching Program Ends, Another Is Set To Begin

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Geocaching, a high-tech treasure hunting activity for out-of-doors types, will continue following a short break after the current program ends next month, the DNR says.

The Wildlife Safari geocaching program will expire at 10 p.m. on May 2. Until that time, people can still search for the thousands of geocaches hidden in Minnesota state parks, the DNR said.

While supplies last, geocachers can find Wildlife Safari award cards and collectable coins, the DNR said.

For those not familiar with the activity, geocaching is when one uses GPS technology to hunt for camouflaged caches (or containers) hidden outside. Inside the caches, treasure hunters often find a log to sign, and sometimes there are little tokens left by other geocachers. According to geocaching.com, there are close to 2 million active caches around the world.

A new geocaching program will launch on June 9 -- National Get Outdoors Day. Details on the new program have yet to be seen.

Wildlife Safari started in 2009. Since then, the department has been host to 9,000 first-time geocachers. Just last year, 3,000 geocache devices were loaned to treasure hunters for free. (Many geocachers use GPS devices on their smartphones).

Courtland Nelson, the DNR's Parks and Trails Division director, said he's delighted that the activity has brought people to state parks.

"Geocaching has clearly been an effective way for us to connect people with the outdoors, especially kids," he said.

For more information, go to the DNR's website or call 651-296-6157.

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