Local and Regional News, Monday 3/2/2026
The International Falls City Council will meet Monday, March 2nd at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 600 Fourth Street.
On the agenda — a second and final reading of the contract ordinance setting new water and sewer rates, along with resolutions approving transfers, accounts payable, and an additional designated depository of city monies.
Council members will also hear a legislative update from Rob Ecklund and a progress report on the Water Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project.
Additional items include consideration of a raffle permit for the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association Trails End Chapter, acceptance of two resignations, approval of a lawnmower purchase for the Public Works Department, and a possible letter of support for the Voyageur Country ATV Federal Recreational Trails Program grant.
The meeting is open to the public, with open forum opportunities included on the agenda.
A new Minnesota Fishing Season is now underway, but there’s still some time to get on the lakes and do some ice fishing. With the temperatures expected to rise throughout the week, Nathan Olson of the Minnesota Fisheries Department says there are things that anglers will need to be paying attention to.
Olson says it’ll be very important to be monitoring those accesses throughout the day, as their conditions can change rapidly.
Olson also reminds anglers to pick up all their trash before pulling their ice houses off the lake, as they could receive fines if they don’t.
For more information on fishing regulations, go to the Minnesota DNR website at dnr.state.mn.us.
Starting next year, FHS is moving to a trimester schedule — opening the door to incredible new opportunities for Broncos.
Students will have access to more elective choices, expanded career pathway courses, and even more College in the Schools opportunities. And here’s the biggest headline — through an exciting partnership with Lake Superior College, Falls High School students can now earn a full Associate of Arts degree right on campus.
That’s right — students can complete their AA degree without ever leaving the halls of FHS.
Registration opens next week, with parent information meetings happening March 2nd and 3rd in the FHS Library. A Lake Superior College representative will be on hand during the 10th and 11th grade sessions to answer questions about the AA pathway.
Students — be sure to watch your email for important registration details.
It’s an exciting next chapter for Falls High School. More choice, more flexibility, and more pathways to success.
The Backus Community Center is showcasing the work of longtime northern Minnesota artist Bruce Trask in a special gallery exhibit and chicory-style auction.
Backus Director Lois Lundin introduced Trask, whose murals and artwork can be seen throughout International Falls.
Trask says his passion for art has always been about serving others.
A retired art teacher of 30 years, Trask has worked across northern Minnesota and created murals locally at businesses, public buildings, and inside Backus itself.
The exhibit also features a special auction format, allowing visitors to bid on dozens of pieces currently on display.
Community members are encouraged to stop by Backus, meet the artist, explore the collection, and place bids during this limited-time showcase.
Minnesota lawmakers are considering a bill that would let anglers use two fishing lines instead of one. Author Chris Swedzinski says the change would boost fish stocking funds by encouraging more wildlife stamp sales and give anglers—especially younger ones—a better chance at success. The Department of Natural Resources does have concerns. Deputy Director Pat Rivers warns that more lines could increase fish mortality and push some lakes beyond sustainable harvest levels. The department is also weighing a separate change that would lower the daily walleye limit from six to four starting in March of 2027.