Northern Minnesota’s warming winters possibly affecting flying squirrels
The region may be losing its northern species as climate change makes it more suitable for southern species.
Hot Topics
Wolf population around Voyageurs National Park steady despite smaller packs
New report tracks changes in numbers of wolves and the size of their packs and territories.
New film covers Isle Royale wolf reintroduction
Wolves, moose, climate change on Isle Royale. New documentary shows how wolf decline is interwoven with ice and exploding moose population, and the debate over what people should do about it.
Minnesota mining engineer says copper mine near Boundary Waters is ‘too risky’
Experienced engineer from Iron Range publicly states opposition to proposed Twin Metals mine.
EPA recognizes PolyMet mine could pollute tribal waters
In significant decision, federal agency says pollution from the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine “may affect” downstream lakes and rivers under the jurisdiction of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
Tofte forest management proposal would affect 333,000 acres adjacent to BWCAW
Public comments invited on plans for timber harvest and prescribed burning in eastern Superior National Forest.
Researchers to track human impacts on Isle Royale wildlife
Citizen science opportunity lets hikers share data that will help scientists understand how people affect animals.
Program to protect private lands, keep rivers cold and clean
The $1.8 million project seeks to purchase conservation easements that will help keep North Shore rivers cold and healthy.
Wilderness advocate to run 110 miles across Boundary Waters for clean water awareness
“Where else can you run 100 miles and not have to carry water with you? That clean water is worth protecting.”
Courts decide key issues concerning mining near Boundary Waters
A series of rulings has offered wins and losses for both environmental groups and mining proponents.
SNF proposes to reclassify roads and trails, restore streams, allow dogsleds and off-road vehicles
Superior National Forest seeks comments on project that would officially designate dogsled trails, open campgrounds to off-road vehicles, and more.
EPA identifies Minnesota wild rice waters affected by mine waste, sets up legal battle
Federal agency overrules state’s efforts to ignore sulfate pollution.
Forest Service reports 2020 Boundary Waters visitor numbers, signs point to another busy season
A significant increase in visitors last year showed value of wilderness, while posing some challenges.
Parts of proposed PolyMet project’s mine permit rejected by state Supreme Court
Justices reverse state decisions about indefinite water treatment and tailings basin liner, while upholding other points.
Walter Mondale – a legacy of wilderness protection
An influential advocate for protecting northern Minnesota’s natural treasures, instrumental in Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area we know today.
Brook trout found in Dunka River could be threatened by mining pollution
State assessment finds a coldwater stream with wild fish thriving — in the shadow of major mines.
EPA says Minnesota can’t ignore wild rice problems caused by mining
Federal agency says state can’t leave lakes off impaired waters list simply because legislature won’t allow pollution enforcement.
Boundary Waters named an endangered waterway
BWCAW is #3 on the list of America’s Most Endangered Rivers, threatened by pollution from proposed mine.
Forest Service changes Boundary Waters permit process to increase Leave No Trace awareness
Permit holders will be required to receive training this year to help prevent problems seen last summer.
Protecting public forests could help reduce climate change and fund Minnesota schools
Minnesota’s school trust lands could generate revenue for education from carbon offsets, studying an alternative to logging, mining.