News

Pheasants Forever, Minnesota DNR join forces to get new hunters into fields and forests

With spring turkey season starting April 17, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Pheasants Forever are inviting Minnesota hunters to join the Hunter Mentor Challenge and take someone hunting who has never hunted or hasn’t hunted for a few years.Minnesota hunters and those they mentor will qualify for a discount code for ALPS OutdoorZ brand gear; and, after their hunt, they have the chance to win a custom, limited-edition Pheasants Forever hunting backpack from ALPS OutdoorZ.The program is open to all spring wild turkey and light goose hunters.

Video shows how to handle flathead catfish, other large fish

A video from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources aims to educate anglers about how to properly catch and release large fish.Being properly equipped and understanding how to handle a large fish is critical to enhancing the fish’s chances for survival after release.

Minnesota state park summer tours now taking reservations

This summer, Minnesota state parks will offer tours introducing visitors to the Iron Ranges’ mining history, prairie life, and the longest cave in the state.Reservations are now available for tours at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine, Blue Mounds, and Forestville/Mystery Cave state parks.

DEED Announces $2.7 Million in Grants for Robotics Teams and STEM Internship Programs

Last week, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced $2.7 million in Robotics Teams and STEM Internships Program grant awards to eight nonprofit organizations and education institutions across the state.This competitive grant program, offered through DEED’s Office of Youth Development, provides grants to organizations to support high school robotics teams, help prepare youth for STEM careers and create internships for high school students to work at private companies in STEM fields.“STEM careers remain in high demand and these skills have applications in many areas – from medical technology companies to manufacturing organizations that are increasingly turning to robotics and automation technology that require skilled workers to operate high-tech machinery,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek.

MDA reminds farmers of proper bulk fertilizer storage

Ahead of the planting season, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is reminding farmers of proper storage guidelines for bulk fertilizer.Bulk liquid fertilizer can contaminate soil, surface water, and groundwater if a storage tank or pipe leaks.

Prairie Five Meals works on opening food hub in Montevideo

At the recent Local Foods Forum hosted by Land Stewardship Project, Prairie Five Meals program director Erick Hedon, along with community specialist Jessica Carter presented information about the organization’s efforts in the local area.