Outdoors

Minnesota DNR stocks fish pond ahead of State Fair opening
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources stocked its popular State Fair fish pond Tuesday morning. There, fairgoers can see the rare paddlefish and prehistoric lake sturgeon, plus a few dozen more species.
Stuck valve drains Lake Alice in William O'Brien State Park
A lake inside a Minnesota state park has vanished, after a mechanical issue with the valve that control’s the lake’s water level.
Minnesota author takes readers on scenic journey of North Shore in new book
Retired professor Arnold Alanen has researched and written an extensive history of the buildings along Highway 61 and the stories of the people who shaped the North Shore. He joined Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer to give a glimpse into his new book, “The Scenic Route.”
Visit Cook County director talks North Shore tourism and international employees
Linda Jurek, the executive director of Visit Cook County and the Cook County Chamber, joined MPR News host Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition at WTIP in Grand Marais Tuesday to delve deeper into regional attractions, cross-border tourism, the impact of international students and more.
Minnesota beaches are closed due to bacteria, toxic algae. Here's where and what to look for.
As the weather gets hotter and more humid, it’s tempting to take a dip into the nearest body of water to cool off. But several Minnesota beaches have seen a rise in bacteria levels that can make people or animals sick. 
West Nile virus detected in mosquitoes across Twin Cities metro
The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District reported that Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, which are primarily responsible for the human transmission of West Nile virus, are present in some of the highest numbers ever recorded for July.  
RAGBRAI+M? The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa crosses the border into Minnesota
Thousands of cyclists rode through southern Minnesota during the famous Iowa bike tour’s first visit to its northern neighbor. At a rest stop hosted in Jackson County, riders sampled food and drinks from local Minnesota vendors and posed for photos with the state welcome sign.