BEMIDJI — The Bemidji State Alumni & Foundation launched a new fundraiser to replant trees on the university's campus.
The June 21 wind storm felled hundreds of mature trees on campus, some of which had been around since before Bemidji State began as a teacher's college in 1919.
Supporters are invited to sponsor a tree at $1,000 each. Each full donation comes with a plaque to recognize the donor and a sustainably sourced wooden gift.
"The gift will be a permanent, tangible example of donors’ legacies at Bemidji State, and it will ensure that future generations can have that trademark experience of learning in the beautiful North Woods," stated a news release.
Donors will be invited to plant trees in the spring of 2026.
For those who would like to be involved but can't sponsor a full tree, the Alumni & Foundation will accept gifts of all sizes for the initiative.
"Every $1,000 raised means a new tree will rise up at BSU, so every dollar matters as we grow a new look for the University in the Pines," stated a news release.
-
Lorie ShaullThe office would be able to investigate any public or private entity that receives public dollars. It would also expand information-sharing between agencies and implement best anti-fraud practices. -
Plus: The new conservation officer in Walker gives his predictions and tips for anglers ahead of his first-ever fishing season opener in the role. -
Contributed/Lorie Shaull via FlickrJack Lien has been exploring the area lakes ahead of opener on May 9, 2026, both to familiarize himself with them and to "study ... where the fishermen are going to get their boats and where they might find success.” -
Contributed/Canva Pro graphicA family member confirmed all three victims are in stable condition after they suffered gunshot wounds in Bemidji's Itasca Loop neighborhood on May 7, 2026. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEThe Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found Deputy Michael Cowan did not discharge his weapon, according to the sheriff's office. The incident is now being called a "conflict case." -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEMPCA meteorologists are predicting an active air quality season for 2026, comparable to 2024. A strong El Niño cycle is expected to bring warmer and drier conditions. -
Contributed/Ellen Schmidt / MinnPost / CatchLightDiscussions around Tamarack echo themes playing out for a Twin Metals’ copper-nickel proposal near the Boundary Waters, which in April cleared a key federal hurdle in the U.S. Senate. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEThe Itasca County Board plans to decide on May 19, 2026, whether to fly the previous Minnesota state flag, possibly in addition to the present flag. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEThe Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension identified Virginia Police Lt. Henry Trunk as the officer who fired his department-issued firearm. -
Contributed/Minnesota DNRA red flag warning means fires can spread quickly and grow out of control under the predicted weather conditions, including strong winds and low relative humidity.
