MINNEAPOLIS — Embattled bear researcher Lynn Rogers is hoping to take his fight to the top.

He said Wednesday he’s trying to get a meeting with Gov. Mark Dayton to appeal a Department of Natural Resources decision not to renew his permits to radio-collar wild bears and place video cameras in their dens.

The Ely-based researcher has a devoted following, but he’s run afoul of DNR officials who say he’s made wild bears too comfortable around humans and question the scientific value of his work.

Donations to a legal fund started by supporters have topped $9,000 and around 5,000 people have signed an online petition on his behalf.

Dayton spokesman Bob Hume said the governor has not received a formal meeting request, but that Dayton would meet with Rogers if he does.