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?
Environment/Ecology/Nature
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.
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.
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.
Wolves transplanted to Isle Royale are eating more than moose
Researchers studying summer predation find wolves transported to the island by the National Park Service are eating the abundant moose, as well as other prey animals.
Minnesota seeks stakeholders as state prepares to update wolf management plan
DNR invites citizens to apply for advisory committee that will take the lead on revising policies and bridging deeply different goals and opinions.
Rainy River sturgeon spawning protected by dam operation agreement
Threat to endangered fish species spurs international action to monitor activity and modify dam operations.
Experiment tracks long-term connections between climate change and Minnesota peatlands
Study seeks information about how warming affects peatlands, and how bogs could respond to climate change by releasing more carbon gasses, making the problem worse.
Den boxes could help falling numbers of fishers in Minnesota’s north woods
Researchers are deploying dozens of artificial tree cavities across the region, hoping the secretive predators will find a suitable substitute for reduced natural habitat next spring.
Michigan legislators propose moose hunting on Isle Royale
A group of four bipartisan legislators want the National Park Service to allow limited hunting, to restore ecological balance as wolf reintroduction continues.
New bird banding efforts to help reveal regional trends in avian populations
A new report shares the results of a regional bird-banding effort that is shedding new light on the status of many boreal species.
Prescribed fires planned this fall in the Boundary Waters to protect outside areas
Fires will reduce the amount of flammable forest materials in areas hit by the 1999 blowdown, and hopefully reduce the risk that a wildfire could escape the wilderness.
Habitat and humans support reintroducing elk to St. Louis River region
Researchers release studies that show there is food and shelter and public opinion is in favor of bringing elk back to another part of their historic home.
Study: Bald eagle recovery in Voyageurs National Park comes at cost to other bird species
A comeback for eagles has caused a significant decline of osprey and great blue herons populations nearby, adding valuable understanding for future restoration efforts.
Undeveloped Island on Burntside Lake Protected
The Listening Point Foundation and other organizations work together to ensure perpetual conservation of Gusty Island, located near other islands included in a state Scientific and Natural Area.
Tornado hits Voyageurs National Park for first time in recorded history
A swath of forest was flattened and some park facilities received minor damage after historic storm.
Mosquito-borne disease killing an increased number of Minnesota’s loons
West Nile virus is blamed in at least two loon deaths this summer in the Quetico-Superior region, which scientists say offer an important reminder about dangers of the disease.
Isle Royale wolf reintroduction moves forward despite doubts and difficulties
The program to capture, transport, and release wolves on the Lake Superior island — providing fresh DNA and predators for moose — has so far succeeded.
Saving Minnesota’s Conifers
Minnesota’s iconic pine-studded northern forests are at risk and the habitat for conifer-dependent birds and animals is in decline. Crews and volunteers are responding by planting thousands of trees…
Deer parasites deadly to moose focus of new scientific study in northeast Minnesota
Researchers will conduct extensive field work to collect data and high-tech analysis techniques to help understand how moose can survive in a warmer future with more whitetail deer.