ELY — The Superior National Forest implemented a campfire ban in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness as dry weather continues to stoke concerns for wildfire.
The campfire restrictions will go into effect beginning midnight Saturday, June 6, through June 30, unless the Emergency Forest Order is rescinded or extended.
Gas or propane cook stoves will continue to be allowed, but stoves and grills fueled by charcoal or other wood will not be permitted.
The Forest Service warns the potential for wildfire is high across northern Minnesota, and encourages people to be careful with any sources of ignition such as smoking devices, dragging chains and recreational vehicles.
“If you are in a location where you can have a campfire outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, consider if the conditions are right and if you need a fire,” stated a Forest Service news release.
“Be sure to keep your campfire small and put it out cold to the touch whenever you leave it. All permitted campfires must be attended all times.”
The nearby Birch Bay Fire has burned 35 acres since Monday and as of Thursday afternoon was 30% contained. The cause remains under investigation.
-
State attempts to recover Camp House Fire costs; Crews deploy sprinklers in Superior National ForestAnd: Construction starts for Boswell Solar Project; and MDH will host public hearing for closure of clinic in Silver Bay -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEFirefighters are using sprinkler systems and fuel removal to protect structures like homes from wildfire. The systems work to dampen the areas around structures to prevent fire. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEA lack of answers about potential impacts fueled skepticism in an already wary community. Mine leaders say it's too early in the process to answer many of the questions. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEPeriods of reduced air quality due to wildfire smoke are expected for the rest of the warm season as fires continue to burn in Northern Minnesota and Canada. -
Contributed/InciWebThe DNR is authorized under the Minnesota Wildfire Act to recover costs of responding to the Camp House Fire, which burned about 12,070 acres and destroyed 187 structures. -
Plus: The Boundary Waters will partially reopen for day use Monday; and Emily gathers for an update on proposed manganese mine.
-
Contributed/Bemidji Fire DepartmentThe Bemidji Fire Department responded to the 400 block of Wood Avenue on the report of a possible garage fire. -
Contributed/via Minnesota ReformerThe July 23, 2026, hearing signifies the final chapter in a year-long saga that has scarred the state and injected a new level of fear into politics. -
Contributed/Bridget Bennett / MinnPost / CatchLight Local / Report for AmericaAs wildfires burn, they release a mixture of toxic compounds like heavy metals, mercury and carcinogenic chemicals that form from burning organic matter. -
Plus: Candidate filing period closes July 28; and wildfire smoke is expected to impact air quality in the state through the fall.
