BIGFORK — The last day to comment on the draft report on the conditions of the Big Fork River Watershed is July 2.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's report found many of the lakes, streams and wetlands in the watershed to be in good condition. It also identified restoration strategies and potential problems in improving and maintaining conditions in some water bodies.
The report stated that Island Lake, Shallow Pond, Jessie Lake and Little Spring have not been meeting water quality standards for recreation due to excess nutrients, which can pose a threat to fish populations. Island Lake is a priority due to high levels of phosphorous.
The report also identified Round Lake, Dunbar Lake and Bowstring Lake in the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe as vulnerable to harm. These lakes are subject to the band's water quality standards.
Comments on the draft report can be submitted on the agency's website.
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Larissa Donovan/KAXEThrough a partnership with the Nature Conservancy, Endazhi-Nitaawiging, Red Lake's first charter school, celebrated the arrival of its new pontoon with family boat rides and hot chocolate on Nov. 12, 2025. -
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Scott Rodgerson/UnsplashThe Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension will investigate the Nov. 13, 2025, incident. The names of the victim and law enforcement involved have not been released. -
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Contributed/St. Louis CountyFormer Mesabi East math teacher Ryan Ross Denzer-Johnson entered a plea agreement with St. Louis County prosecutors after being initially charged in August 2025.
