Local and Regional News, Friday 5/8/2026

Minnesota pollution officials say residents should prepare for another active summer for poor air quality tied to wildfire smoke and ozone pollution. State meteorologists predict between 12 and 16 smoke-impacted days this summer, along with up to six high-ozone days during hot weather. MPCA Commissioner Katrina Kessler says air quality affects every Minnesotan.

Officials encourage residents to check daily air forecasts and limit outdoor activity during alerts.

A new workforce initiative is aiming to connect more people — including tribal communities — with careers in the growing energy sector. Leaders with the Center for Energy Workforce Development and Enbridge say the demand for skilled workers is expected to surge in the coming years.

Christy Kelley with the Center for Energy Workforce Development says the industry already employs about nine million workers nationwide, with opportunities ranging from skilled trades to technical and business careers.

The organization, with support from Enbridge, has also launched a tribal-focused training module designed to teach learners about tribal governments, sovereignty, and energy careers.

The free online training and career resources are available now at GetIntoEnergy.org.

The Voyageurs Wolf Project is asking for public support as it launches its annual fundraiser to continue wolf and wildlife research in northern Minnesota.
Project leaders say their goal this year is to raise 135-thousand dollars to fund research equipment, field operations, staff salaries, and ongoing wildlife studies — including the project’s widely viewed trail camera footage and groundbreaking documentation of cougar kittens in Minnesota.
Despite working closely with researchers and public agencies, the project says it does not receive direct annual funding from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Voyageurs National Park, or the University of Minnesota.
Researchers say donations are critical to keeping the project operating long-term, covering costs ranging from GPS collars and remote cameras to aerial surveys, fuel, housing, and genetic analysis.
Supporters can learn more or donate through the project’s fundraiser link posted on the Voyageurs Wolf Project Facebook page.