Environment

The DNR adopted new rules in January 2026, changing the previously closed portion of the bass fishing season to catch-and-release, meaning fishing for the species is open year-round.

The Jan. 28, 2026, meeting will give the public an opportunity to provide feedback on the DNR's proposed changes to the Public Waters Inventory list as part of a statewide update effort.

The agreement with the Department of Natural Resources ends the agency's enforcement action for that site, though monitoring will continue.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will host an informational open house for the mine's air, water and wetlands permits, one of the last regulatory steps for the company.

KAXE covered natural disasters, federal funding chaos, Eichorn's arrest and resignation, mining permits and wild rice, library budget cuts, sheriffs teaming with ICE and more.

The agency did not issue a determination on permits at U.S. Steel’s Keetac mine, which is expected in February 2026 ahead of the Legislature convening.

Positions include the 7th and 8th congressional districts in Northern MN. The board provides leadership and coordination on environmental issues, and chances for public engagement.

Five Northern Minnesota soil and water conservation districts were awarded funds to help prevent and clean up garbage and other waste left on the ice.

Minneapolis-based Mortenson Development wrote in a letter that it wishes to host a public open house before proceeding.

In a lawsuit filed Nov. 5, 2025, the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy joined the grassroots Stop the Hermantown Data Center group to demand further environmental review on a proposed data center.