Dennis Anderson's April 12 column describing "Trekking for Turkeys' and Bill Marchel's accompanying piece ("Simple turkey lesson: Don't give up") remind a city dweller of the bounty of natural resources just down the road a piece here in the Upper Midwest.

The reintroduction of the wild turkey, its newfound popularity and the Department of Natural Resources expertise make me proud to live in Minnesota. Hope, optimism and continued preservation of the gifts Mother Nature has bestowed upon us extend beyond the wild turkey reintroduction success story. Let us continue to cherish our heritage of providing habitats for wildlife so future generations also can witness the wonders of nature.

Wasn't I surprised upon stepping out my front door this Easter morning, right here in my near Northeast neighborhood, to happen upon a hen wild turkey in my yard! Unconcerned by my presence, she strutted a few paces, stopped, looked about and strode across the street. Life copying the morning paper's printed word, or was it a happenstance everyday blessing? Whatever the experience was, it compelled me to write this letter.

TIM MCDevitt, Minneapolis