There is now evidence that cougars, which used to be native to Minnesota, are reproducing in the state again. A recent video shared by the Voyageurs Wolf Project caught a female cougar and three kittens on one of their trail cams.
When the ice will be out on Boundary Waters lakes? Using scientific and historical data, an online thaw tracker provided by the Minnesota Sea Grant helps estimate when ice will disappear from Minnesota lakes.
From the successful restoration of the fire-ravaged Powwow Trail to an ambitious new project rebuilding boardwalks on the popular Eagle Mountain Trail, BWAC volunteers are the boots on the ground keeping wilderness paths open. Crews paddle or hike in, and use traditional hand tools to clear deadfalls and protect the trail experience for thousands of hikers.
One of Minnesota’s most scenic and longest hiking trails turns 40 this year. The Superior Hiking Trail began as a grassroots effort by hiking enthusiasts who wanted to create a long-distance trail in the state. The trail, which loosely follows the rocky spine overlooking Lake Superior, is popular with hikers who explore it each season.
Sax-Zim Bog in Minnesota is a unique place where species thrive that you won’t find elsewhere in the U.S. In spring, myriad birds seek varied habitats to nest or rest briefly during migration. Visitors can come and witness this spectacular seasonal movement.
For decades, wildlife biologists assumed that because the snowshoe hare population was down in Voyageurs National Park, it was unlikely any lynx were reproducing in the area, until now. In trail cam footage, researchers spotted two lynx kittens being trailed by their mother. This sighting is encouraging as it means that the rarely seen animals are finding prey in the southernmost areas of their range.
Minnesota DNR recently made history by acquiring one of its largest land holdings. The purchase protects thousands of acres of forested land across multiple counties, in partnership with The Conservation Fund, Northern Waters Land Trust, and ten counties.
In an important move, The Nature Conservancy has purchased more than 12,000 acres of dense forest and wetland north of Two Harbors, marking its largest land acquisition in over 25 years. Conservation efforts will focus on sustainable management that supports the health of forests, wildlife, and clean water.
High above Duluth, thousands of raptors soar past Hawk Ridge each year during migration season. From bald eagles to kestrels, this world-class birding destination offers unforgettable views, expert-led programs, and hiking trails surrounded by fall color. Here’s how to plan your visit to Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory.
Scientists and environmentalists regard estuaries as some of the most biologically diverse yet endangered ecosystems on Earth. A new film, Estuaries in the Balance: Freshwater Nurseries of Lake Superior, highlights both the human impact and ongoing restoration of North America’s largest freshwater estuary.
Near Birch Lake Reservoir, Jeff Hanson’s mobile lab is testing a potentially proven, cost-effective method to remove sulfate from watersheds flowing into the Boundary Waters. This pollution, a byproduct of taconite mining, harms humans and contributes to toxic mercury levels in fish.
The Gichi Onigaming Conservation Crew, part of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, upgrades infrastructure and preserves natural resources at Isle Royale National Park. They enhance the park experience for visitors through their trail projects.
Blue-green algae is spreading in BWCAW lakes. A $1.3 million grant will be used to study its impact. While visitors should assess their own risk, the researchers also provide tips to help limit exposure.
Local communities, Tribal Nations, state agencies, and multiple organizations have launched a partnership to develop a regional climate response plan in northern Minnesota. With a focus on climate issues, the newly formed Northland Climate Resilience Collective was funded through a grant from NOAA.
Volunteers are needed to count loons this summer. The Minnesota DNR is seeking people to observe and count the state bird between July 4-14 for their monitoring project. The information gathered will help protect and support the continued health of the birds. Current populations hover around 12,000, more than any other state besides Alaska.
The Nature Conservancy is actively working to acquire 12,350 acres north of Two Harbors. It would be their largest land acquisition in over 20 years. This property lies near the Sand Lake/Seven Beavers Preserve and just north of the Finland State Forest. If it moves forward, it will connect with neighboring preserves, expanding a continuous ecosystem of protected forest and wetlands.
A plan is in place to return elk to some of their native range as early as 2026. The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, in partnership with the Minnesota DNR, plans to move 100-150 elk from northwestern MN to the Tribe’s reservation and surrounding areas in Carlton and southern St. Louis counties.
The Superior Resource Advisory Committee is looking for members who will help guide the Forest Service on upcoming projects. Most projects focus on restoring and managing federal lands with a focus on benefit to surrounding communities.
The USFS, in partnership with the North Country Trail Association, has updated two entry points for thru-hikers along the Gunflint corridor of the BWCAW. Previously, it was illegal to cross the Gunflint Trail between the Kekekabic and Border Route Trails. The new process makes it legal, eliminates overlapping permits, and prevents unnecessary fees.
The USFS – Superior National Forest, in partnership with the Friends of the Flathorn-Gegoka, recently completed a new trailhead and parking lot. The area is a cross-country skier’s haven, featuring over 29 km of classic trails through the woods. Heavy flooding last summer pushed the project forward when bridges along part of the trail were damaged.