Environment

Downtown Duluth snow clearing scheduled

DULUTH, Minn. – City of Duluth street maintenance crews will be removing snow from right-of-ways in the downtown business district on Thursday, February 26 and Friday, February 27, 2026.  Snow removal operations will generally occur from 7:00 AM until 3:30 PM. Some people call the clearing process “the snow train.” No parking signs will be posted in the area ahead of…

The 2026 First Ship contest is live

Duluth’s Lift Bridge DULUTH, Minn. – The 43rd Annual First Ship Contest is open for guesses. The Duluth Seaway Port Authority and Visit Duluth are partnering for the First Ship Contest. The person who correctly guesses when the season’s first “saltie” sails into the seaport could win a Duluth prize package.  A “saltie” means an oceangoing vessel to complete a…

Emotions run high at Duluth City Council Meeting

  Duluth City Council Meeting Gallery (2/23/26) DULUTH, Minn. — Monday’s Duluth City Council meeting continued discussions around civility in the chambers and respecting each other’s views. This was the first council meeting since some in the audience chose to jeer and speak over councilors two weeks ago. Some councilors took that meeting as a boiling point on issues of…

Ice shelter removal deadlines approaching

Ice Fishing State Boundary Map DULUTH, Minn. — Recent warm weather has deteriorated many public water accesses in the central and southern parts of Minnesota and prompted thin-ice warnings for some bodies of water.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wants to remind anglers to start planning for bringing them off the ice in advance of approaching removal deadlines. “It’s…

Winter cattail burns to happen in Voyageurs National Park

Prescribed burns in Voyageurs National Park INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. – Voyageurs National Park staff will be conducting prescribed burns in selected wetlands in and near Black Bay and Cranberry Bay on Rainy Lake in February and March 2026. The prescribed burns will remove unwanted invasive cattails and dead vegetation.  They also have the goals of rejuvenating wetland plant communities, and…

New bridge installed in Nemadji State Forest

Net River Forest Road Bridge NICKERSON TOWNSHIP, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has completed a bridge replacement and road improvement project on the Net River Forest Road in the Nemadji State Forest. It was the final phase of a multiyear project to reconstruct the road to make it safer and more accessible for both recreation and forest management….

Power outages expected due to heavy wet snow fall

DULUTH, Minn. – FOX 21 Chief Meteorologist Rusty Mehlberg is predicting snow, sleet, freezing rain, and rain to fall across our region Tuesday (Jan 17) evening into Wednesday (Jan 18) morning.   These storms very likely will cause at least scattered power outages. Stay safe – Ways to be prepared for an outage: • Keep a “Lights Out” kit in an…

Searchers find wreck of luxury steamer lost in Lake Michigan more than 150 years ago

Courtesy: shipwreck hunter Paul Ehorn MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Searchers have discovered the wreck of a luxury steamer that sank in a Lake Michigan gale in the late 19th century, completing a quest that began almost 60 years ago. Shipwreck World, a group that works to locate shipwrecks around the globe, announced Friday that a team led by Illinois shipwreck…

Trump’s EPA revokes scientific finding that underpinned US fight against climate change

(CNN) WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration on Thursday revoked a scientific finding that long has been the central basis for U.S. action to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change, the most aggressive move by the president to roll back climate regulations. The rule finalized by the Environmental Protection Agency rescinds a 2009 government declaration known as the…

DNR proposing reduction to Walleye limits

DULUTH, Minn. — The DNR is proposing dropping the Walleye limits from 6 fish to 4. The current limits were put into place in 1956, but much has changed leaving walleye populations being strained. By reducing the limit, the DNR is hoping to preserve walleye populations for generations to come. Climate changes, invasive species, and improvements to fish finding technology have…

NorthShore Inline Marathon named to World Inline Cup Schedule for 2026

DULUTH, Minn. — The 30th year of the NorthShore Inline Marathon will bring about the largest edition of the race yet, as the annual Twin Ports event has been added to the 2026 World Inline Cup (WIC) schedule. The promotion means more prize money, status as a “PremiumClass” event on the circuit, and recognition as the only scheduled stop for…

Minnesota Power presents grant to Hartley Nature Center

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Power showed their support for the Hartley Nature Center with the presentation of a new grant for the center. The gift is for $6,000, and will be used to help build classroom enhancements, which will help support the center’s outdoor education for thousands of area students and their families, many of which have their own roots…

Treecycling drop-off sites are open

DULUTH, Minn. — Resource Renew’s Treecycling program opened up over the past weekend. Drop-off locations have been set up around the area. People can just drop off their Christmas trees free of charge for composting. Because they can only process organic material, the tree must be real and not flocked. Wreaths, garlands and other evergreen decorations made with wire cannot…

Reward offered for information on pelican shooting

WISCONSIN.  — A cash reward is being offered for information related to Pelicans being shot in Wisconsin, including one in Ashland that survived lead poisoning from being shot. ‘Animal Wellness Action and Center for a Humane Economy’ is offering $2,500 in this case. SEE PREVIOUS:Resident pelican rescued in Ashland SEE PREVIOUS: Rescued Pelican in Ashland was shot, rehabilitator says That…

Minnesota Power terminates partnership with proposed NTEC in Superior

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Power has officially terminated its partnership with the proposed natural gas power plant in Superior known as NTEC. Minnesota Power said “permitting and litigation delays” around the Nemadji Trail Energy Center (NTEC) project are factors in the decision. This means, Minnesota Power customers will not receive energy from the plant — if it becomes a reality,…

Lake Superior “Zoo Lights” in final weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The last weekend before Christmas marks the final time this holiday season that the Lake Superior Zoo’s “Zoo Lights” will be up for visitors to the zoo. The annual holiday tradition lets zoo-goers walk around the complex to see the “larger than life” critters along the paths, then head inside the zoo’s “Primate Conservation Center” to warm…

St. Louis River Alliance hold ‘River Appreciation’ party

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis River Alliance set up shop at Clyde Iron Works for a “River Appreciation” party. The party was free and open to the public, with cake served to the attendees before a presentation, recapping the organization’s 2025. A focus of the event and others like it for the alliance is the organization’s ongoing “Membership Drive,”…

Injured Pelican highlights the costs of cruelty

ANTIGO, Wis. — A pelican that was recently rescued from Chequamegon Bay in Ashland is currently being treated for lead poisoning following a gunshot wound. SEE PREVIOUS: Resident pelican rescued in Ashland Officials say Lead poisoning in birds is complex. “We have to use injections, chelating injections, twice a day to remove the lead from the blood, and then we…

Resident pelican rescued in Ashland

Conservation Biologist Ryan Brady with the rescued pelican ASHLAND, Wis. — A pelican in Ashland was rescued Wednesday, Dec 3, as increasing ice cover threatened it. The pelican was first spotted back in September and stuck around for much longer than usual, becoming a bit of a local celebrity. Over the past couple of months, Conservation Biologist Ryan Brady had…

Cougar sightings reported from Duluth to Two Harbors

DULUTH, Minn. – Cougar sightings between Two Harbors and Duluth have created quite the excitement. A cougar sighting in Duluth on Wednesday put two schools into a “secure status” as a precaution. A spokesperson for Duluth Schools said the cougar was spotted about a half-mile from Ordean East Middle School, which is also near Congdon Park Elementary. Both schools lifted…

City of Duluth snowplow drivers say they’re ready for first major snowfall

DULUTH, Minn. — With snowplows officially out on Duluth roads assisting Twin Ports commuters, there’s some interesting science that goes along with the first plowable snowfall. While the snow has been few and far between so far during the season, the noticeable lack of snowfall has helped plow drivers be extra ready for whatever comes their way. “The city takes…

Grand View Golf Course reopens for final weekend of season

DULUTH, Minn. — Northland golfers are sneaking in one last round at Grand View Golf Course before colder weather strikes. The course, which had previously closed down for the winter, opened back up for one final weekend of golf. Dozens of golfers have been coming out to celebrate the end of the fall season, but the owner of the course…

Sax Zim Bog extending the length of popular Auggie’s Bogwalk

MEADOWLANDS, Minn.– Over the years, Sax Zim Bog out in Meadowlands has captured the hearts of countless nature enthusiasts. One of their most famous landmarks is going through what staff is calling a long overdue extension. When visiting Sax Zim Bog, visitors have different goals and missions. Whether it’s searching for a life bird or trying your luck at some…

Chester Bowl preparing for upcoming winter season

DULUTH, Minn. — Chester Bowl has begun it’s preparing for the upcoming winter season. The preparations kicked off with ski fittings for young skiers and their families who will be renting the equipment during the season. With events like these featuring well over 100 athletes a night, it’s the work of volunteers that helps Chester get ready for the big…

Minnesota Monsters announce new head coach

DULUTH, Min. – The Minnesota Monsters have announced new Head Coach. Daron Clark will be Head Coach for the first season of the team in the AF1. Clark has been an assistant coach in The Arena League (TAL) and National Arena League (NAL). He also played arena football in the Indoor Football League (IFL), Arena Football One (AF1), plus on…

Trail Access Restricted Due to Crosby Fire

FINLAND, Minn.– When the Crosby Fire began last week, the DNR and Superior Hiking Trail officials wasted no time implementing safety measures. “We just got word of the fire, kind of beginning yesterday, kind of coordinated with the DNR. We didn’t hear until about 5:30 kind of in the evening, about looking to close a section of the Superior Hiking…

Lutsen Fall Colors Experiencing Two Peaks This Year

LUTSEN, Minn.– Lutsen mountains is open year-round with different seasons bringing in different opportunities. But while the leaves are turning it’s the biggest turn out the resort has all year. “Last year, on our busiest day, we had a record day. We had 4,600 people here. We have a lot of people that come up from the cities. We’ll have…

Carlton County Animal Rescue’s First Fundraising Gala A Success

CARLTON, Minn. — Nearly 200 people came together Saturday night to support Carlton County Animal Rescue’s foster program and its efforts to build a physical animal shelter. The Seasons of Love Gala was the first-ever fundraiser for the non-profit, which formed in 2022. The gala was held at the Four Seasons Event Center in Carlton.  FOX 21’s Dan Hanger was…

Minnesota Discovery Center Unveils Brand New Fall Colors Tour

CHISHOLM, Minn.– The Minnesota Discovery center is making the most of their mine land reclamation site. With the shuttle already on deck, this opportunity was bound to happen. “We use it primarily for water recreation, and then we also pick up mountain bikers trail side with it. But this fall, we decided to repurpose it for fall color tours, and…

‘Seasons of Love’ Gala to Help Fund New Animal Shelter in Carlton County

CARLTON COUNTY, Minn. — If you love supporting animals, there’s a big fundraising event happening Saturday to help build an animal shelter for Carlton County Animal Rescue. The “Seasons of Love” event is Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Four Seasons Event Center in Carlton. Doors open at 6 p.m., but VIP ticket holders get extra fun starting at 5 p.m….

EV charging station opens, 1st of 16 to be installed by Minnesota Power

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Power celebrated the first of many Electric Vehicle fast chargers being installed across the region. A network of 16 fast chargers is planned to be finished by the end of the year. The goal is to reduce Range Anxiety – the fear of running out of battery because no chargers were nearby. “There will be four…

Minnesota Power Reminds Customers of “Cold Weather Rule”

DULUTH, Minn. — With the seasons changing and cold air on the way, Minnesota Power is reminding customers about the state’s “Cold Weather Rule.” The rule prevents residential customers from getting their natural gas or electric service shut off for non-payment between Oct. 1, and Apr. 30. Minnesota Power encourages customers, who believe the higher winter bills will be too…

Fall Hawk Migration in Full Swing

DULUTH, Minn.– Birders were ready with binoculars, cameras and counters, because right now, fall hawk migration is in full swing. Every fall, guests flock near and far to visit the cliffside birding site. Today specifically, counters kept busy with bald eagles, sharp shinned hawks, and broad winged hawks. This year, Hawk Ridge broke the state record with daily bluejay sightings….

Man cited for starting Camp House Fire

Camp House Fire (May 15, 2025) DULUTH, Min. – A Duluth man has been cited in connection with the Camp House Fire. It is believed the fire started from an unattended campfire. The fire started May 11, 2025, near Brimson. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources tells FOX21, “The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in coordination with the St….

Lake Superior Zoo Starts Campaign To Fund Rescued Animal Housing

DULUTH, Minn. — Since March, the Lake Superior Zoo has been home to a few new residents, and now, those residents are needing a little public support to ensure a comfortable future at the zoo. “We are trying to raise awareness for our “New Beginnings” campaign that is supporting our rescue.” said Lead Zookeeper Emily Perala. “Earlier this year, the…

‘The Wildcat Sanctuary’ Takes in Four Seized Big Cats

SANDSTONE, Back in May, the Wildcat Sanctuary out in Sandstone recently took in four cats in a seizure from ‘West Coast Game Park Safari’ in Oregon. The new additions at the sanctuary are just 4 of 315 total animals removed from the area. They welcomed in Louis the black jaguar, Bentley, a spotted leopard, Nasha, a lioness, and Lyla the…

Hibbing’s Memorial Building Arena to get new digital scoreboard

Memorial Building Arena Scoreboard Takedown HIBBING, Min. – The City of Hibbing is announcing a major upgrade at the Memorial Building arena. The arena’s longtime scoreboard was removed after more than three decades of service. It was in 1993 and weighing more than 4,000 pounds. A new four-sided digital video board will be installed in mid-September. The city says, “The upgrade…

‘Dimitri’ the Tiger Undergoes Dental Procedures

SANDSTONE, Minn.– It was a busy dentist day at The Wildcat Sanctuary. And now, Dimitri the tiger has a ‘grrrreat’ smile! The seventeen-year-old tiger was worked on by the ‘Minnesota Vet Dentist Specialist’ team from Duluth. What initially started as a routine root canal, turned into three extractions, and two root canals. And even when wild animals are in captivity,…

Local Environmental Organizations Proving “Everyone Can Bird”

SUPERIOR, Wis.– Everyone can go birding, and a group of nonprofits, and outdoor enthusiasts around Superior are proving this time and time again. For the fourth year now, Friends of the Lake Superior Reserve has been organizing birding trips each year. To make the outings as accessible as possible, just about every type of accommodation is included. Binoculars, track chairs,…

Boil water notice for parts of Duluth’s upper Lakeside neighborhood

UPDATE: Test results confirm that no biological or bacterial contamination has entered the water system and that the drinking water remains safe to consume. The precautionary boil water notice is ended effective immediately. DULUTH, Min. – Residents between 43rd Avenue E to 54th Avenue E, from Norwood Street up to Skyline are under a boil water notice. During the evening…

Duluth Parks and Recreation Lays Out Plans for Park Point Improvement

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Parks and Recreation have now shared some concept plans with the Park Point community as they continue steps towards improving the point’s recreation area. This comes after both climate patterns and time have worn down the rec area over the past years. Three concept plans were laid out, all of which are intended to support items…

Food-Conditioned Wolf Lethally Removed on Isle Royale

ISLE ROYALE, Mich. — Isle Royale officials have lethally removed a wolf that repeatedly obtained human food at campgrounds. Throughout June and July park managers closely monitored at least two wolves that were frequently sighted near campgrounds and developed areas. The wolves were seen seen dragging away food storage bags and backpacks at numerous campsites. Officials say that despite changes…

Interim Executive Director named to Lake Superior Zoo

Noah Hobbs DULUTH, Min. – The Lake Superior Zoo Board of Directors has announced Noah Hobbs as its Interim Executive Director. Hobbs will take the role effective August 25, 2025. Lake Superior Zoo Board President James Lewis said in the announcement, “Noah brings a unique blend of local knowledge, community connection, and proven leadership…  His deep roots in Duluth and…