Gov. Mark Dayton's participation in the Nov. 5-7, 2015, Minnesota Governor's Deer Hunting Opener in Mountain Iron will for the second time this year focus media attention on northeastern Minnesota's outstanding outdoor opportunities and recreational lifestyle.

Like the May 2015 Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener at Lake Vermilion, the 13th annual deer hunting opener is expected to generate extensive coverage from media outlets throughout the Midwest.

"Northeastern Minnesota is fortunate to host two high-profile evens that showcase our outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities," said Beth Pierce, Iron Range Tourism Bureau director. "Just as the Lake Vermilion area hosted a successful fishing opener, Iron Range volunteers are now planning fun family activities for the deer hunting opener."

At the 2015 Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener, more than 60 media outlets represented by 125 staff covered event, according to Explore Minnesota Tourism.

Coverage of the fishing opener created 1,865 media placements in print publications, online, television, radio and social media, resulting in more than 310 million media impressions and more than $1.3 million in publicity value, according to Explore Minnesota Tourism.

The 2015 Governor's Deer Hunting Opener in Mountain Iron will highlight Minnesota's deer hunting tradition, its economic impact, hunting education, the region's natural resources and travel opportunities in the host area.

"It's a great chance to shine the spotlight on our Iron Range hospitality, as well as the many things to see and do in the region," said Pierce. "It's going to be a great event!"

Minnesota has an estimated 500,000 deer hunters, generating roughly $263 million in retail sales each year. Deer hunting activity supports almost 5,300 jobs in Minnesota, according to a 2007 Association of Fish and Wildlife report.