BEMIDJI: When in a recession, do as the squirrels do.

The headline is from Minn. Independent's link over to PiPress; here; carrying an AP feed -- where bird watchers can turn the tables on squirrels, and raid the squirrel feed nature provides while the bushy tailed critters are busy robbing from the bird feeders.

Eco-war. All that.

The DNR's forestry office in Bemidji will begin buying pine cones and acorns today. Officials are looking for jack pine, tamarack and black spruce cones along with red oak and bur oak acorns.

The DNR plans to pay between $20 and $120 per bushel, depending on the type of seeds. Purchasing will run through late October or early November.