Local and Regional News, Monday 5/4/2026
Minnesota lake groups say progress is being made in the fight against invasive species—but future funding cuts could threaten that momentum.
Since 2014, the state has invested about 10 million dollars a year to help counties prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species like zebra mussels. Officials say those efforts have worked, dropping the spread rate from around 40 percent per year to just six percent.
Programs include boat inspections and free cleaning stations, which can remove most invasive material in minutes.
But starting in 2027, funding is set to be cut in half. Local leaders warn that could reverse years of progress—especially for smaller lake associations with fewer resources.
Experts say it only takes one contaminated boat to introduce a new infestation, putting Minnesota’s lakes and outdoor economy at risk.
A hydrant flushing notice for residents in Fort Frances.
The town says routine hydrant flushing will take place Monday, May 4th in the areas of Sorting Gap Marina and the intersection of Front Street and Minnie Avenue.
During this maintenance, residents may notice discolored water. If that happens, you’re advised to run your cold water tap until it clears.
Officials say the flushing is part of regular system upkeep.
The D-N-R is reminding riders to prepare before hitting off-highway vehicle trails as the season opens today. The state offers more than 3,000 miles of trails for A-T-Vs, off-highway motorcycles, and off-road vehicles, but officials say conditions may vary due to late snowmelt or flooding. Riders are urged to check trail status in advance, stay on marked routes, and ensure they meet safety certification requirements. Registration is also required for all O-H-Vs on state and grant-in-aid trails. The D-N-R says those fees help maintain trails and support safety programs, and encourages riders to consider joining local clubs that help keep trails in good shape.
A grant writing workshop is coming up on the Iron Range, with two opportunities to attend.
Session one is set for May 12th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Mineland Reclamation Building in Chisholm, while a second virtual session will be held May 19th from 12:30 to 2:30.
The workshop will be led by nonprofit consultant Cameron Kruger and will cover best practices for writing clear, competitive grant proposals, along with tips on using data and storytelling.
Registration is required, and space is limited for the in-person session.
The workshop is free to attend.
Reforestation efforts are underway in northeastern Minnesota as crews work to restore areas burned by last year’s wildfires. In St. Louis County, forestry officials oversaw the planting of 40,000 red and white pine seedlings across nearly 50 acres of land impacted by the Munger Shaw Fire. The fire burned about 1,600 acres near Cotton in May 2025 and forced evacuations as it spread through dry forest conditions. Officials say planting long-lived species like pine will help create a more resilient forest and reduce future wildfire risk.
A reminder for Minnesota drivers—flashing red lights on a school bus now means an immediate stop.
A newly strengthened state law requires drivers to stop at least 20 feet away the moment a bus’s red lights begin flashing—no waiting for the stop arm to fully extend.
Officials say the change closes a dangerous loophole and aims to better protect students getting on and off the bus.
Failing to stop remains a misdemeanor, carrying a minimum 500-dollar fine—but authorities stress the real risk is far greater.
The Minnesota State Patrol says thousands of stop-arm violations are reported each year, and drivers are urged to slow down, stay alert, and stop when those red lights flash.