A new Minnesota law requiring boaters to stay clear of enforcement watercraft with their emergency lights flashing went into effecton July 1. Theso-called “moveover law” is intended to provide the same protection for watercraft enforcement officers as similar laws do for police, State Patrol and other emergency response personnel. The new law states, “When approaching and passing a law enforcement... READ MORE >
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wildlife managers have reported an increase in nuisance bear complaints in recent weeks. “This is a tough time of year for bears,” said Mark Spoden, DNR assistant area wildlife manager in Grand Rapids. “After hibernation, they are hungry. When berries and vegetation are scarce, bears are often tempted by dog food, livestock feed, birdseed,... READ MORE >
The U.S. Census Bureau officially launched its 2010 census efforts on March 30, 2009 by sending out more than 140,000 census workers to verify and update over 145 million addresses. “Building on the achievements of the 2000 census, we have been testing and preparing for the 2010 count all decade,” said acting Census Bureau director Tom Mesenbourg, “and we’re ready... READ MORE >
agreement with plaintiffs in a lawsuit challenging the Service’s 2009 Gunflint rule removing Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves in the Western Great Lakes. Under the terms of the agreement, premises which must still be approved by the court, the Service will provide subject an additional opportunity for public comment on the rule to ensure compliance with the Administrative... READ MORE >
The Grand Portage Community Center is pleased to announce that it will be participating in the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge. Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability. There will be no discrimination... READ MORE >
The Superior and Chippewa National Forests are implementing new rules regarding the processing, transport and use of specific types of firewood on national forest lands within the boundaries of both forests. Thenew rules hope to address the introduction and dispersal of non-native invasive species (NNIS), including emerald ash borer (EAB), by firewood movement into Minnesota. The new policy prohibits firewood... READ MORE >
No degrees or formal education are required for seniors wishing to attend “A Day at College” Aug. 27 in Duluth. The College of St. Scholastica’s Emeritus College has organized the event for area senior citizens for a cost of $15, which includes all sessions and lunch. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Sessions include TheSt. Scholastica Story, TheSteel Drum of Trinidad... READ MORE >
Sommer Smith of Grand Marais has been named to the spring 2009 dean’s list at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Sommer is a 2008 graduate of Cook County High School. She is the daughter of Scott Smith and Kristine Barton of Grand Marais. In order to achieve dean’s list honors, a student needs to attain a grade-point... READ MORE >
Starting July 1, a hunter will no longer need to have his or her firearm in a case while driving a motor vehicle. Thenew law applies to crossbows, rifles and shotguns only—handguns must still be in a case. This change in the law will be included in the 2009 Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet, which will be available in August.... READ MORE >
What we do with live bait affects our waters. Unfortunately, some waters in Minnesota are infested with invasive or exotic species—plants and animals that crowd out native species and cause ecological harm. When you’re fishing, your bait bucket and live well may become a temporary home for these unwanted aquatic hitchhikers. Aquatic invaders such as zebra mussels, spiny water fleas,... READ MORE >
