Wilderness News Online

Gypsy Moth Numbers Increasing

The number of gypsy moths in northern Minnesota continues to rise, despite successful efforts to eradicate established populations of the exotic insect. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture reported recently that it trapped 28,000 gypsy moths in the state in 2009, more than double the 2008 count.

PolyMet Public Comment Meetings Set

Two public meetings to hear comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for PolyMet Mining's proposed copper-nickel mine near Babbitt have been scheduled, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced.

Invasive Mussels Found Near Isle Royale

A colony of non-native mussels has been found in Isle Royale National Park's Washington Harbor, park officials revealed yesterday. The discovery raises concern over the island park's large native mussel populations.

No Impacts Yet from Spiny Water Flea

Invasive spiny water fleas have been present in northern Minnesota waters since 2006, but scientists have yet to see negative impacts from the plankton of European origin.

More Spraying for Gypsy Moths

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is continuing it's aerial spraying efforts to stop the spread of invasive gypsy moths in northeastern Minnesota.

National Forests Tighten Firewood Restrictions

In an effort to slow the spread of emerald ash borers in the state, National Forest officials on Friday announced tightened restrictions on firewood use and transportation in Minnesota's Superior and Chippewa National Forests.

Gypsy Moths Sprayed on North Shore

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has sprayed pesticide this week along the North Shore to slow the spread of invasive gypsy moths. The agency applied BTK via aircraft near Tofte and Lutsen.