Wild rice conditions are looking good this year in many areas of Minnesota and the Department of Natural Resources is offering tips and a reminder of important regulations restricting harvest to rice stands that are ripe. Peak harvesting dates are estimated to be in late August to mid-September as long as weather remains mild and…
Invasive oak wilt is progressing northward in Minnesota into Cass and Crow Wing counties. To prevent the spread and loss of oak trees to this deadly disease, the Department of Natural Resources is urging residents and visitors in these counties to report suspected oak wilt now through mid-August. “As its name suggests, the telltale sign…
DNR officials have confirmed zebra mussels in Bowstring Lake, which is mostly on the Leech Lake Reservation within Itasca County. According to a release, two adult zebra mussels were found, attached to old, submerged tires in separate locations outside reservation waters on the northeast side of the lake. Invasive species specialists determined that at least…
The Minnesota DNR will reopen its campgrounds at state parks, forests and recreation areas starting June 1. Both public and private campgrounds can reopen beginning June 1, if they create a preparedness plan and follow the state’s campground guidelines. These guidelines, according to the website, include closing common spaces and services, such as amphitheaters, visitor…
Tomorrow, in conjunction with Minnesota’s fishing opener, is “Clean Drain Dry Day.” The conservation proclamation, sponsored by Wildlife Forever and Beltrami County, highlights the importance of fishing and boating, and how invasive species are a direct threat to lakes, rivers and local economies. New reports show fishing licenses are up 41 percent compared to last…
Beltrami County reminds boaters to practice best management practices for preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. Anglers across the state are being urged by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to spend the fishing opener close to home. Bruce Anspach, aquatic invasive species lake technician for Beltrami County, says this time of the season…
Bemidji Parks and Rec is offering garden plots at the Rako and Nymore sites. According to a release, preference will be given to City of Bemidji residents, and all plots run seasonally from May through October with reservations ranging from $15 to $20. The garden areas are fenced and water is available for growing vegetables…
The Bemidji Fire Department warns of a near critical fire danger today, with a forecast showing low humidity and high winds. According to the National Weather Service, the near critical fire danger is present for Lake of the Woods, Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Becker and Wadena Counties. Winds will be from the north at 20 to…
Even in this era of social distancing, and with the expansion of outdoor recreational activities allowed by Gov. Tim Walz, boaters across Minnesota are preparing to hit the open water, where they can find it. Cold water can be hazardous and falls into that water can quickly turn tragic. A fall into the lake at…
While in the midst of this Pandemic, Minnesotans must take a moment to remember that other hazards will not take a break as we move into severe weather season. The week of April 13-17 is designated Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week. There are five topics for Severe Weather Awareness Week, including Alerts and Warnings; Storms,…
