News
Prost to Fall Fun! Bluefin Bay Hosts Second Annual North Shore Oktoberfest on October 11
Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts is thrilled to announce its Second Annual North Shore Oktoberfest, set to take place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This free event is open to the public and promises a day filled with German-themed flavors, fall beverages, lively contests, local crafts, and family-friendly fun
Buyck Area News
Kathy Weiand sent me the following exciting news: The Buyck Fire Department has received a grant from IRRRB through the State of Minnesota mineral tax bond to build a new fire hall. Lenci Enterprises in Virginia, Minn., won the bid to do the project. The garage portion of the construction should start in September. It will be at the same location. It’s been a labor of love that we have all been working on for 20 years. A big shout out to the Fire Dept. building committee for all of their hard work and for the community for their unending support. We are very grateful. And excited!
Breeding waterfowl population counts include lower estimate for blue-winged teal, mallard; goose numbers increase
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ spring 2025 waterfowl population count found that Minnesota’s blue-winged teal population is 60 percent below last year. Blue-winged teal prefer small, temporary wetlands for nesting and brood rearing. Over the last few years, dry conditions have led to fewer of these wetlands in Minnesota, likely spurring the teal to settle outside the state and reducing the estimated number of birds present in the state this past spring. At an estimated 64,000 in spring 2025, this is the lowest blue-winged teal population since the survey started in 1968.
It’s the time of year to pay attention to West Nile virus prevention
This is a high-risk time of year for West Nile Virus transmission. Activity in mosquitoes, humans, and animals typically peaks in the latter half of the summer. WNV is regularly found in the U.S. and birds serve as the primary host of the disease. The virus circulates between infected birds and mosquitoes.
Wild rice season now open, but harvesters must ensure rice is ripe
With the Aug. 15 opening of wild rice season, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds harvesters that rice stands must be ripe before they can be legally harvested.
COOK PUBLIC LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION BEGINS AUGUST 25
Work to restore the Cook Public Library to pre-flood condition begins on Monday, August 25, 2025. The construction project to restore walls, carpet and electrical outlets damaged by the flood also includes a roof replacement and HVAC relocation.
Minnesota DNR adds new exhibits and demonstrations to 2025 State Fair lineup
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ building and surrounding grounds at the Minnesota State Fair (which runs from Aug. 21 to Sept. 1) will feature a new exhibit, demonstrations and activities in addition to popular annual attractions.
Sturgeon River Chapter Banquet Set for September
The Sturgeon River Chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA) is gearing up for its annual banquet, scheduled for Saturday, September 13, 2025, in Mt. Iron, Minnesota. Doors will open at 4:00 p.m., with an evening of food, raffles, auctions, and camaraderie planned. The exact venue will be announced soon.