Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is addressing 10 wildfires in Superior National Forest that emerged over three days, with four located in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The fires range from 0.25 to 2.3 acres, and while no closures are in effect, the public is urged to avoid fire areas for safety.

The first of three peregrine falcon chicks successfully fledged from the nest on Tuesday at 7:22 a.m., marking the start of the 2026 season. The chick is unlikely to return to the nest, while its siblings are expected to fledge next week, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Minnesota State Patrol and local agencies are increasing enforcement against impaired driving during the Fourth of July and summer months. Data shows a 60% rise in DWIs during the July 3-5 period in 2025 compared to 2023, with 375 DWIs and 35 crashes reported. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources also warns boaters about impairment, citing alcohol as the top factor in boating fatalities.

The Minnesota DNR banded three peregrine falcon chicks as part of a yearly tradition to track their health and migration. Of five eggs laid, three hatched, producing two male chicks and one undetermined sex chick. Unhatched eggs were sent to the Chicago Field Museum for analysis.

A non-native Hemimysis anomala shrimp species has established a self-sustaining population in Lake Superior, completing its spread to all five Great Lakes. The study found juveniles, adults, and evidence of reproduction in the Duluth-Superior Harbor, confirming the species' establishment there.

The Chaska Police Department and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources rescued a baby deer that was stuck in a levee. The incident was captured on camera.

One year after a historic derecho with 120 mph winds destroyed 9 million trees and caused $10 million in damage in Bemidji and Beltrami County, recovery continues amid wildfire risks. Officials highlight new wildlife habitats from regrowth but stress ongoing concerns about dry fuel and fires, while urging tourism to support recovery.

An analysis of the data reveals that the new records range from a 2-pound bluegill sunfish to a 4-pound, 1-ounce black crappie, and from a 30-inch rainbow trout to an 80-inch lake sturgeon.

Minnesota's national guard has been deployed to help fight wildfires in the northern region of the state. The deployment was authorized by Governor Tim Walz, who declared a peacetime emergency due to the unpredictable and fast-moving blazes. The wildfires are being fueled by dry and windy weather.