Lifestyle

Minneapolis cafe gets real about the struggles of operating amid pandemic
The Birchwood Cafe reaches out to their community with an honest letter about the challenges of running a business during the pandemic and provides resources for people to help.
Food is growing more plentiful, so why do people keep warning of shortages?
For more than a century, food has been getting more abundant, and cheaper. Yet people keep worrying about food shortages. Some economists say the fears actually create their own problems.
What to watch for in Minnesota’s fall bird migration
If you’re tuned to the sound of birds outside your window, you may have noticed their morning symphonies slowly getting quieter in recent weeks. That’s because the fall migration has started, even though it’s barely August.
University of Minnesota lab to study size, force of boat wakes
University of Minnesota researchers plan to launch a study this fall of wakes created by recreational boats, hoping to provide insight into their impact on Minnesota lakes and shorelines.
Red pine shoot moths leaving their mark across much of Minnesota
If you live near red pine trees — and in much of Minnesota, chances are you do — you may have noticed some dead, brown patches in the upper branches this summer. They're proof of a moth outbreak the likes of which the state hasn’t seen in more than 20 years.
More boaters mean more threats to loons on Minn. lakes
As the COVID-19 pandemic drives more people to enjoy outdoor recreation this summer, there are more people on Minnesota lakes — and a greater chance for conflict between boaters and wildlife. That can mean problems for Minnesota's iconic state bird.
COVID-19 brings surge of visitors — and some messes — to BWCA
The BWCA and the surrounding Superior National Forest in far northern Minnesota are seeing a surge in visitors this summer. With activities canceled and other trips on hold, vacationers are flocking to the area for the kinds of outdoors getaways that naturally allow for social distancing. That's good news for outfitters. But some of those campers are wreaking havoc.
Another COVID-19 ripple effect: Crowded lakes cause conflict
The effects of COVID-19 are showing up on the lakes of Otter Tail County, where the sheriff’s department water patrol is having a busy summer. With vacations canceled and travel at a minimum, people are staying close to home — and more boats on the water have meant more complaints about noise, and trespassing on private beaches.
The joy and health benefits of gardening
Gardens and plants — both indoors and outdoors — provide both physical rewards in the form of flowers and vegetables and mental ones like wellness. Two guests discuss the joy of gardening, especially during a pandemic.