Tribal group supports legislation to prevent mining near Boundary Waters
Coalition of Ojibwe bands calls on Congress to pass legislation blocking copper-nickel mines in the wilderness watershed.
TOP STORY:
An Obsession with Owls
Photojournalist Ben Olson is fascinated by the owls of northern Minnesota. “While having spent countless hours in the company of these birds of prey, I am always impressed by their ability of silent flight and mastery of camouflage. Boreal forests host an array of different owl species, some relatively common, others rare, and a single transient species that is highly coveted…”
Search-and-rescue crew recaps year of Boundary Waters emergencies
Respected northern Minnesota rescue squad responded to hundreds of calls last year, including almost 20 in the Boundary Waters wilderness.
DNR and PolyMet appeal order to conduct judicial review of controversial copper mine permits
State and mining company ask Supreme Court to review decision by Court of Appeals that requires a contested case hearing to consider facts affecting permits in front of a judge.
New evidence from Voyageurs National Park shows blueberries are a big deal for wolf packs
Field observations in remote areas shed new light on wolf behavior, including how they feed their pups when meat is hard to come by.
House committee holds hearing on McCollum bill to block mining in wilderness watershed
Members of Congress questioned witnesses who testified about the Boundary Waters, the economy, and past decisions to protect northeastern Minnesota’s lakes and rivers.
Just stopping by – checking in on the Evening Grosbeak
This bright and brilliant winter finch is a familiar sight to many in the northwoods of Minnesota, sometimes arriving in unexpected flocks of dozens or hundreds. But are they disappearing?
PolyMet water permit court proceedings examine actions by regulators
Witnesses and additional evidence were examined after the Court of Appeals ordered a hearing into how state and federal officials worked together to convey concerns over mining pollution.
Two invasive species in Minnesota lakes appear to cause slower walleye growth
Study from the University of Minnesota finds that young walleye appear to be smaller in waters infested by spiny waterflea and zebra mussels, with implications for the future of popular fisheries.
Near-perfect weather conditions for 2020 Gunflint Mail Run sled dog race
The dogs were eager, ready and pulling on their leads, when the 2020 Gunflint Mail Run sled dog race officially began early on Saturday, January 11, spectators and mushers expected great weather and optimal trail conditions.
Boundary Waters permits go on sale January 29 for restricted quota season
Are you ready to reserve your dates and entry point? Permits to camp in the popular wilderness area this summer will soon be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
High water on Lake Superior expected to continue this year after record-setting 2019
Precipitation patterns are blamed for water levels far above average, which have caused erosion, flooding, and other challenges along the shoreline.
New legislation in Congress would prohibit mining in Boundary Waters watershed
Bill introduced today by Rep. Betty McCollum seeks to stop any and all copper-nickel mining activity in parts of the Superior National Forest where water flows into the wilderness.
Minnesota court throws out key PolyMet permits in win for environmental interests
Court of Appeals finds that the DNR was wrong to deny a hearing over the mining and dam safety permits for proposed copper-nickel project in northeastern Minnesota.
Heart of the Continent sustainable tourism partnership to host winter meeting on edge of Quetico
International gathering near Atikokan will offer presentations, discussions, and the chance to take part in a wilderness ski adventure the following day.
Minnesota plan to increase annual timber harvest includes proposed logging in wildlife areas
DNR leaders will meet with conservation groups about logging in wildlife management areas, and potential harms to habitat.
Photo gallery: Winter’s wilderness wonders await in the Boundary Waters
Inspiring images from around the region show how to have fun in the snow and enjoy the unique beauty of the season.
DNR reduces trout stocking in Boundary Waters
Popular pastime of ice-fishing on wilderness lakes is at risk as DNR reduces stocking effort while warmer weather threatens coldwater habitat.
Boundary Waters counties get good news about federal reimbursement for wilderness
Local governments will continue to receive the same level of compensation from the Forest Service to make up for lost revenue, until a new appraisal is completed.
Ghosts of the Northwoods
Photojournalist Ben Olson shares his trek to find Minnesota’s elusive lynx. “My obsession with Canada lynx stems from a series of unexpected events and chance encounters…”