Top Stories
Lorie Shaull
/
KAXE
The Republicans and DFLers hosted precinct caucus meetings across the region on Feb. 3, 2026.
Contributed
/
Proctor-Hermantown Alpine Ski Team via Facebook
Malachy Koons
/
KAXE
Music
"Season Watch" is a KAXE podcast for the curious, filled with the delights of nature in Northern Minnesota. Hosts are Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan, John Latimer and a rotating cast of characters, often featuring voices of young nature observers from around the state. From owl calls to sleeping bears and freezing frogs, we want hear from you! Record a message and send us what you are seeing in nature!
Inspired by an imaginary world of peace, friendship and equality created by fellow Louisville artist Mark Anthony Mulligan, Peacelands is a collection of peaceful protest songs recorded solo by My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James. From Woody Guthrie to Bob Dylan, James’ intimate versions take on new meaning as artists elsewhere stand with the people of Minnesota. All proceeds will benefit the American Civil Liberties Union and Doctors Without Borders. -Malachy Koons
When our neighbors are in need of food, organizations and volunteers across Northern Minnesota step up. Food shelves, community meals and soup kitchens aim to the fill the gaps.
Latest Stories
Court: State lacks authority to prosecute Indian Country pot case
The court ruled that cannabis possession by Thompson, as an enrolled member on the White Earth band living on the reservation, became a civil matter once MN legalized recreational marijuana.
County attorneys nix proposal for Minnesota sheriffs to coordinate with ICE
The idea was an agreement that would allow ICE up to 48 hours to pick up undocumented individuals targeted for immigration enforcement to cooperate more fully with federal authorities.
Brainerd boys and girls Nordic ski teams to race at state
The Ely boys and Cook County girls will also compete Feb. 11-12, 2026, at Giants Ridge, along with individual qualifiers from Bemidji, Ely, Proctor-Hermantown, Grand Rapids, Two Harbors and Cloquet-Esko-Carlton.
Minnesota's much-maligned shrews hide evolutionary superpowers
In this episode, co-hosts Charlie Mitchell and Heidi Holtan delight in a report from Northfield and discuss critter superpowers.Send us a voice memo through Speak Pipe!
Snowmobiler dies in crash north of Orr; 700 immigration agents leaving MN
Plus: DFL, GOP host precinct caucuses across Minnesota; Bemidji State University leaders to tour Brainerd/Baxter, Grand Rapids, Iron Range; and Northland student-athletes to race at state alpine skiing tournament.
Gull Lake housing development environmental review open to public comment
Cass County is accepting public comment on the environmental review of Waterside Estates proposed near East Gull Lake until Feb. 26, 2026.
What does it sound like when Bald Eagles kiss?
During the week of Feb. 3, 2026, we enjoy a students' approximation of Bald Eagles smooching and reports of deep cold. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.
Move over, melatonin: Groundhogs' supercharged hibernation hormone
In the Phenology Report for the week of Feb. 3, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on groundhog hibernation and the aggressive spirit of muskrats and shrews.
Snowmobiler dies in crash north of Orr
A 57-year-old man from the south metro was killed after two snowmobiles collided on the Arrowhead Snowmobile Trail on Feb. 3, 2026.
Trump administration says it’s removing 700 immigration agents from Minnesota
The move leaves roughly 2,300 agents in the state as part of Operation Metro Surge, which began late last year.
Man dies in St. Louis County's custody; In new fraud efforts, state to train 160+ staffers for site checks
Plus: Republican state rep. Ben Davis to seek reelection in 6A; the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame will stay in Eveleth; Northland students will soon perform in state tournaments; and Canada's Border Services Agency is seeking feedback on a new remote border entry program.
Canada's Border Services seeks feedback on new remote entry program
The agency states the new process will more closely align with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol measures for entering the U.S. in remote areas.
With The Setlist, KAXE's Music Team curates the best live music to catch each week across Northern Minnesota and beyond.
Contributed
/
Bonnie Lundorff via the KAXE - KBXE Season Watch Facebook group
During the Phenology Report for the week of Jan. 27, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on Ruffed Grouse tracks, Great Horned Owls, and canid mating season.
More Local Stories
Stay up to date on what's happening up north with KAXE/KBXE News, bringing you the top stories across Northern Minnesota.
KAXE/KBXE is the oldest rural community radio station in the U.S. and an independent NPR affiliate.
KAXE/KBXE is the oldest rural community radio station in the U.S. and an independent NPR affiliate.
News from National Public Radio
Don't miss a beat. 📻 Join our station's newsletter!
Check out our archives.
Join our Season Watch Newsletter!
"The mix of humor, solid information, and approachable science is perfect. It's like having a favorite neighbor who just happens to be a nature expert."
- Michelle from Northfield, MN
Check out what's been happening the past year!
