A wild fox from Anoka County has tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza. This is the first confirmed case of HPAI in a wild mammal in Minnesota. The University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory alerted the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, which is responsible for monitoring the health of the state’s wildlife. The National Veterinary Services Laboratory later confirmed... READ MORE >
The approaching fishing season comes with a reminder from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to always follow state laws to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. It’s important for anglers to take a few minutes for invasive species prevention every time a boat comes out of the water. Maj. Shane Kirlin, DNR operations manager, reminds boaters that prevention... READ MORE >
Grand Marais Public Library reopened its building to the public on Monday, May 9, after sustaining a month’s worth of flooding. Public access to the collection, computers, and conference room have been restored, and the library is operating its normal hours. With significant restoration work expected, staff anticipate fluctuations in service levels will continue this summer. “It’s so good to... READ MORE >
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds Minnesotans hoping to harvest wild turtles this year that they will need a valid fishing license and must adhere to updated regulations (mndnr.gov/FishingRegs). Residents with an angling license can take snapping and western painted turtles in Minnesota for personal use — to eat, keep as pets or to remove as a nuisance. All... READ MORE >
The Arrowhead Regional Arts Council has recently started accepting applications for two new grant programs designed to assist the arts and cultural sector recover from the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. One program will offer operating support for regional nonprofit arts organizations. The second program will provide funding to individual working artists for projects that continue their artistic excellence.... READ MORE >
May is National Foster Care Month. Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) is seeking foster parents to partner in caring for children and youth in need. If you are interested in making a difference in children’s lives, consider becoming a foster parent. On an average day, there were approximately 8,600 children and young adults in care in 2020, according to... READ MORE >
On Sunday, May 1 the Cook County Highway Department announced it had closed a portion of UT 48 due to a culvert issue and issued an advisory for water running across CSAH 7. By May 3 the highway department said a temporary repair had been made on UT 48 and that the road was safe for travel. Receding waters allowed... READ MORE >
Minnesota added more rainfall monitoring volunteers during the annual March recruitment than any other state and set a new national recruiting record for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). The recruiting effort led by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota office of the National Weather Service resulted in 365 new volunteers and brought the... READ MORE >
The U.S. Forest Service opened its quota permit system for overnight paddle, hiking and motor trips, and motorized day trips for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on May 1. Visitors who are taking an overnight trip into the BWCAW from May 1 to September 30 are required to obtain a quota permit. Permits must be picked up on the... READ MORE >
The 13th annual art show sponsored by Spirit of the Wilderness Episcopal Church is called “Growing Towards the Light. It will be held at the Johnson Heritage Post from April 29 to May 22. The show opens Friday, April 29, with a reception from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Professional artists and emerging artists of all ages from up and... READ MORE >
