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.
Hot Topics
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.
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…”
Federal legislation requires report on mining threat to international waters
Rep. McCollum includes funding for State Department to study effects on shared border waters, from proposed copper-nickel mining upstream in the Superior National Forest.
Twin Metals submits mine proposal for state and federal review
Proposed copper-nickel mine on the edge of the Boundary Waters is official after company submits first plans and other documents to regulators.
National Park Service wants input and ideas about boat tours in Voyageurs National Park
Park managers invite comments about what is working and what is needed at the water-based National Park in northern Minnesota.
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.