As Red Flag Warnings continue for much of Minnesota with dry fuels and warm, windy air, fire personnel across Northern Minnesota have been busy this week responding to grass fires.
A St. Louis County woman is facing charges of negligent burning following a grass fire that expanded to 10 acres Tuesday, April 21.
Deputies, local fire departments, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources responded to a report of a grass fire just after noon on Tuesday. The fire, on Sheldon Road in Ellsburg Township, consumed a few uninhabited outbuildings but was contained a few hours later.
On Monday, responders in the Park Rapids area battled a 10-acre grass fire that escaped into the woods. As of Wednesday, the fire was 100% contained.
Under Red Flag Warnings, burning permits for brush piles will not be issued. Residents are advised to avoid activities during these conditions that can cause wildfires, such as leaving campfires unattended, creating sparks near dry fuels such as a dragging chain, or even having hot exhaust pipes from recreational vehicles on tall, dry grass.
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Grant Frashier/KAXEThe Great Northern Radio Show was created by Aaron Brown and ran on KAXE from 2011-2019. The live variety show visited towns in Northern Minnesota and highlighted the music, stories, history and specialness of small towns in our region. -
During the Phenology Report for the week of April 21, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on aspen flowers, migrating swallows, and the beginning of the dawn chorus. -
During the week of April 21, 2026, we enjoy reports of life awakening and migrating across the state. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds. -
Scott Rodgerson/UnsplashA 39-year-old man was treated for injuries following a shooting in the early morning hours of April 22, 2026, in Cass Lake's Tract 33 housing area. -
Contributed/Minnesota Department of Natural ResourcesResidents should not burn in counties where a Red Flag Warning is in effect and should also check any recent burning they did to ensure the fire is completely out. -
Plus: The city of Virginia will begin removing and replacing ash trees in a proactive move against the invasive emerald ash borer. -
Lorie ShaullThe Legislature does not have to approve a new budget in 2026 but is still holding talks affecting taxpayer dollars. -
Contributed/University of MinnesotaResidents may notice increased tree removals in city boulevards, parks and public spaces because of the emerald ash borer, but new trees will also be planted in priority areas. -
Contributed/City of Grand RapidsGrand Rapids is working on a new master plan for Legion Park, with potential investments including a curling center, indoor fieldhouse and mountain biking trailhead. -
Contributed/Flick user Bjorn ChristiansonAn Afternoon with ORIP is a free session from the Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership that will cover an economic impact report and next steps for the industry.
