A new bridge along the Baptism River in northern Minnesota opens access to 156 miles of trout habitat. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in partnership with conservation groups, recently completed the bridge redesign. This improvement allows fish to migrate between habitats while providing recreational opportunities. The project also included shoreline restoration that supports changing conditions.
Located within Finland State Forest, the Baptism River stretches nearly 26 miles, not including its numerous tributaries. Its headwaters are located about ten miles north of Finland. Flowing southeast, it eventually empties into Lake Superior. The river serves as an important habitat for brook, brown, and rainbow trout, as well as Chinook salmon.
Like many North Shore streams, the river is bounded by boulders and waterfalls, surrounded by a mix of conifers and hardwoods.
Habitat upgrade
The original crossing acted as a barrier to both fish and humans. During floods, the culverts were too small to handle high water, as seen during the heavy rains of 2022 and 2024. This led to flooded roads and trails. During low water, the culverts restricted stream flow, preventing fish access to cooler areas.
With funding from the Get Out MORE initiative (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences), the project was completed this year. The initiative also included upstream and downstream improvements that benefit the overall ecosystem. The Nature Conservancy planted trees along streambeds, choosing species that can tolerate higher temperatures. As they mature, they will shade the spring snowpack and help maintain cool stream temperatures throughout the summer.
Project coordinators were future-thinking, incorporating a design that would be environmentally resilient. “Climate change is driving an increase in extreme precipitation and flood events, which places more pressure on water-related infrastructure,” said Sarah Strommen, commissioner of the Minnesota DNR. “The water infrastructure projects funded by Get Out MORE will modernize outdoor recreational experiences while making these areas more resilient to climate change and enhancing aquatic habitat.”
Bridge increases safety and access
The new bridge and removal of the old culverts now provide better access for all. A reliable route connects the trail at the intersection of Hockamin Creek and the C.J. Ramstad Trail. Anglers and snowmobiles will be able to use it, and logging trucks will be able to drive over it as well.
Other nearby areas also benefited from improvements. Culverts were replaced along other watersheds, allowing residents and emergency vehicles maneuverability throughout the state forest.
The Minnesota DNR partnered with Get Out MORE, Trout Unlimited, the Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to complete the project, which includes state and federal funding.
More info:
- New bridge benefits northeastern Minnesota’s Baptism River watershed – Minnesota DNR
- Baptism River – Minnesota DNR
- New bridge benefits northeastern Minnesota’s Baptism River watershed – The North Shore Journal
Wilderness guide and outdoorswoman Pam Wright has been exploring wild places since her youth. Remaining curious, she has navigated remote lakes in Canada by canoe, backpacked some of the highest mountains in the Sierra Nevada, and completed a thru-hike of the Superior Hiking Trail. Her professional roles include working as a wilderness guide in northern Minnesota and providing online education for outdoor enthusiasts.