Local and Regional News, Wednesday 3/25/2026
A road closure notice for motorists in the area this Wednesday.
Beginning at 8:00 a.m. on March 25th, the intersection of Mowat Avenue and Church Street will be closed to all traffic due to a watermain repair. Officials say the closure is expected to last for one day.
Drivers should also be aware of possible lane width restrictions along Church Street between Central Avenue and Veterans Avenue, depending on the size of the excavation work.
Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time.
Officials thank the public for their patience and cooperation during the repair work.
A growing debate continues over the future of the Boundary Waters, as federal protections face a possible rollback in Washington.
Supporters of conservation say the concern centers on proposed copper mining near Ely, which could impact waterways flowing through the region and beyond.
The measure has already passed the House and now awaits a vote in the Senate, where only a simple majority would be needed.
A Minnesota veterans advocate is hosting a free webinar next month to help veterans better understand their rights.
Benjamin Krause, a disabled Air Force veteran and founder of DisabledVeterans.org, will lead the online session as part of a nationwide awareness effort.
The webinar focuses on recent updates from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to its Veterans Benefits Disclosure form—changes aimed at strengthening consumer protections and preventing unlawful fees.
The updated policy clarifies who is legally allowed to assist veterans with claims and reinforces the right to choose accredited representation.
The free webinar is scheduled for April and will walk participants through the new rules, including when fees are permitted and how to report potential fraud.
Veterans can register and find more information at DisabledVeterans.org.
As we move into spring, anglers across the Borderland are entering a key transition period on the ice.
Minnesota DNR fisheries expert Phil Talmage says while the traditional fishing opener is still a few weeks away, there are still plenty of opportunities right now.
Even with warmer weather, Talmage says ice fishing continues—but safety is critical as conditions begin to change.
Anglers are reminded that no ice is ever completely safe, especially as shorelines and pressure ridges begin to shift.
Looking ahead, preparations for open water season are already underway, and Talmage says now is the time to get ready.
The DNR is also encouraging the public to weigh in on the Rainy Lake fisheries management plan, now available online for review and comment.
For more information, visit the Minnesota DNR website.