Podcasts about minnesota department

Help is available for families who lost a Medicare provider after Minnesota's revalidation process. Sheletta chats with her friends from the Minnesota Department of Human Services to offer resources available to help families access the services they need.  https://mn.gov/dhs/find-care/  

Summer in Minnesota means more time outdoors — and more encounters with ticks and mosquitoes.While most bites are little more than an annoyance, these tiny pests can carry diseases that pose serious health risks. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two experts about the risks posed by ticks and mosquitoes, and what Minnesotans can do to protect themselves, their families, and their pets while enjoying the outdoors this summer.Guests:Elizabeth Schiffman is the epidemiologist supervisor at the Minnesota Department of Health. She oversees disease surveillance activities for mosquito- and tick-borne diseases across Minnesota. Caleb Corona is a research entomologist and vector control scientist for the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District.Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.    

Summer job season is here and many teens and young adults are looking for a chance to earn money, gain experience and build skills.MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about the state of the summer job market for young workers in Minnesota. They'll discuss where opportunities exist, what employers are looking for and how job seekers can stand out in a competitive hiring environment.Guests:Mark Brinda is the Workforce Development Manager for the City of Minneapolis. Oriane Casale is the assistant director of the Labor Market Information Office for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.Chris Farrell is a senior economics contributor for MPR News and Marketplace.During the show, the guests shared this job search resource: ​Jobs in Minnesota | Career Resources | CareerForce.MN.gov

Forest Service officials say the Birch Bay wildfire burning a few miles northwest of Ely is now 30 percent contained.The Minnesota Department of Human Services has disenrolled sixty percent of providers from 14 high-risk Medicaid programs.Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Earlier this spring, PAVE and Stantec partnered with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to host an educational and experiential AV Day at the Capitol for state policymakers and other community leaders. Tune in for a conversation exploring the public sector's role in AV education and engagement, using Minnesota's recent event as a case study. Speakers include Tara Andringa of PAVE, Thomas Johnson-Kaiser and Tara Olds of MnDOT, and Greg Rodriguez of Stantec.

The school year is wrapping up for high schoolers. Soon, some teens will put down their backpacks and pick up an ice cream scoop, or maybe a lifeguard whistle. It's the season of the summer job. But this year, it may be a bit harder to find one. Over the past year Minnesota lost more than 5,000 jobs in leisure and hospitality – sectors that tend to hire youth. In March, the teen unemployment rate was 13.2 percent, nearly double what it was in March 2025, according to data from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. The higher unemployment rate could be a return to what was typical before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Oriane Casale, assistant director of DEED's Labor Market Information Office. Casale joined Minnesota Now along with Billie Jo Greene, who helps teens find jobs as team leader of the Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program in Bemidji.

Send us Fan MailJaneen Balsimo, a retired Minnesota state employee, spoke with Liz Collin on her podcast about what she believes to be yet another kind of Somali fraud involving workers' comp cases and “fake employees” with “fake injuries.”She explained how "it seemed like 50% of my work comp cases … were Somali cases” — and how up to $150,000 was awarded for injuries.Balsimo said that it wasn't until watching Nick Shirley's viral video that she recognized some familiar business names while working in the tort recovery unit for the Minnesota Department of Human Services.“I thought about it, I thought, wow, so the fraud went as far as the employee was a fake employee, probably with fake injuries, because there is no people at these places,” she said.Support the show

The Flanders wildfire in Crow Wing County is now 95 percent contained. Authorities say they believe it was sparked by a campfire. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources said it has identified people of interest in connection with the case. Good financial news for Target today -- the Minneapolis-based retailer saw better-than-expected sales in the first quarter.Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says it has located the origin of the Flanders Fire near the north shore of Flanders Lake. The fire started early Saturday afternoon and grew to more than 1,600 acres. Crow Wing County Sheriff Eric Klang says individuals appear to have started a campfire near Flanders Lake on Saturday or the night before. Minnesota is being sued by a federal agency over a new state law banning prediction markets.Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

WORT 89.9FM Madison · Feds Remove Protections for Boundary Waters, Roadless Areas Jamie Ervin (photo courtesy Outdoor Alliance) On April 16, the U.S. Senate voted 50-49 to approve House Joint Resolution 140, stripping federal protections against metal mining in the watershed of the U.S. Forest Service's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Voyageurs National Park. The vote fell mostly along party lines, with all Democrats voting against the resolution.  Republican Thom Tillis of North Carolina crossed the aisle to vote against the measure, while Missouri Republican Josh Hawley did not vote.  The move comes in response to a proposed copper sulfide mine to be operated by Chilean-based Twin Metals.  Permitting for the mine now falls to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.  Meanwhile, on April 21, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers wrote to Brooke Rollins, secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to oppose the U.S. Forest Service's proposed rescission of the 2001 Roadless Rule, which includes wilderness protections for some 70,000 acres of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Northern Wisconsin.  Jamie Ervin is the Senior Policy Manager of the Outdoor Alliance, a coalition of outdoor recreation and conservation groups, and he joined the Monday Buzz on May 18, 2026. Featured image: Section Twelve Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Superior National Forest. (Photo by Daniel Ziegler, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons) Did you enjoy this story? Your funding makes great, local journalism like this possible. Donate hereThe post Feds Remove Protections for Boundary Waters, Roadless Areas appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we're joined by leaders from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs to discuss career opportunities, Veteran mental health resources, and Memorial Day weekend events across the state. Guests include: Ray Douha, Director, CareerForce Veterans Employment Program Shannon Sprouse, Senior Veterans […] The post Minnesota Veterans Career Fair, Mental Health Resources, and Memorial Day Events appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Scott Brewer and Kyle Agre are talking hunting, fishing and just about anything you can do outdoors each weekend on Gone Outdoors radio. Listen in this week as they welcome Elizabeth Schiffman of the Minnesota Department of Health to inform us about vector borne illnesses, Pastor Ben Jacobson with an invite to the upcoming Men In Boats event and Mark Noonan previews a bass fishing tournament on White Earth Lake. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 As Minnesota advances toward its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 — what are some of the most actionable and cost-effective decarbonization opportunities for this sector?   In April, Fresh Energy and The 2035 Initiative co-authored a new study, “Advancing Industrial Electrification in Minnesota,” that charts practical policy pathways for decarbonizing the manufacturing sector.  Listen to this latest episode to hear from the report's authors, including The 2035 Initiative's Dr. Leah Stokes and Dr. Eric Masanet and Fresh Energy's Brandon Isakson, with opening remarks from Pete Wyckoff, Deputy Commissioner of Energy Resources at the Minnesota Department of Commerce and Kate Knuth, Climate Director at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The group will dig into the details of the report, discuss policy pathways, and answer audience questions. Resources:Download the studyView a recording of the webinarFresh Energy's mission is to shape and drive bold policy solutions to achieve equitable carbon-neutral economies. Together we are working toward a vision of a just, prosperous, and resilient future powered by a shared commitment to a carbon-neutral economy. Learn about Fresh Energy's work and our bold "Vision 2030: Fresh Energy's Strategic Framework" at our website fresh-energy.org.Follow us on Social Media!Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/freshenergytoday/Bluesky:  https://bsky.app/profile/freshenergy.bsky.socialFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/freshenergytodayLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/fresh-energy/

A Minnesotan may have been exposed to hantavirus. The Minnesota Department of Health is monitoring this person for symptoms. The state epidemiologist explained this virus, how it spreads and how health officials are making sure it stays contained. You might be looking at gas prices and thinking it's time to go electric. We checked in on the state of the EV industry in Minnesota. Plus, prediction markets are on their way to being banned in Minnesota. But the ban is likely to face legal obstacles. It's a picture-perfect spring day. We got an extended forecast from MPR News Meteorologist Sven Sundgaard. This weekend, a herd of bison will be released in the St. Croix River Valley. We learned how the animal is crucial to habitat preservation.

State health officials say they're monitoring a Minnesotan who may have been exposed to hantavirus. The person was briefly in contact with a cruise ship traveler who tested positive for the virus. The Minnesota Department of Health says the individual is not currently showing symptoms and the risk to the public remains very low. Hantavirus is normally passed on by rodents but the Andes strain linked to the cruise ship outbreak is the only known type that can spread person-to-person. Dr. Ruth Lynfield, epidemiologist at the Minnesota Department of Health, shared more about the steps being taken and what to know about the virus.

In a recent announcement from the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will be utilizing nearly $200 million on wastewater and drinking water projects across the state

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is making sure providers of high-risk Medicaid services have the right paperwork, training, and insurance on file. Over 5,500 Medicaid providers are required to go through revalidation by the end of May. If you're one of these providers, Sheletta tells you how to follow the steps to ensure compliance and avoid missing out on funding on the latest episode of her autism podcast. mn.gov/dhs/revalidate-steps

Guest Minnesota native Aaron Hebeisen grew up hunting, fishing, and recreating outdoors. His lifelong passion for wildlife led him to earn an Animal Ecology degree from Iowa State University. He has worked for the Minnesota Conservation Corps, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture on wildlife disease research, and is now the Field Operations Coordinator with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, supporting chapters in 10 states across the Midwest and the southern U.S. Summary This episode explores the meaning, management, and future of public lands in the United States. The discussion begins by defining public lands—roughly 640 million federally managed acres overseen by agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service—and emphasizes their "multiple-use" mandate, balancing recreation, resource extraction, and conservation. Aaron highlights BHA's mission to advocate for these lands on behalf of all users, not just hunters and anglers, framing Americans as "public landowners" with both rights and responsibilities. A key theme is the complexity of land and water access, illustrated through conflicts over stream access laws in states like Illinois, where differing definitions of "navigability" create legal gray areas and tension among stakeholders. The conversation also examines policy advocacy, including coalition-building, lobbying, and navigating bipartisan politics. Aaron describes BHA's approach as "radically purple"—engaged but nonpartisan—focused on finding common ground across competing interests. A major case study is the rollback of mining protections near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area via H.R. 140, which Aaron argues could set a precedent for weakening environmental safeguards nationwide. Despite such challenges, the episode remains grounded in a broader philosophical reflection: public lands are a uniquely American inheritance that fosters personal connection, humility, and stewardship. Ultimately, Aaron underscores that protecting these lands requires active civic engagement—if people don't participate, they risk losing access to what is collectively theirs. A key takeaway Public lands belong to all of us, but their future depends on whether people actively engage in protecting them—through stewardship, advocacy, and participation in the political process. References / Links Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Beyond Fair Chase: The Ethic and Tradition of Hunting LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

A bill to make Minnesota's bridges safer passed the House unanimously Thursday. The measure directs the Minnesota Department of Transportation to make a statewide plan to identify bridges with high suicide rates and incorporate suicide prevention in new bridges.The judge presiding over the Feeding Our Future case is limiting convicted ringleader Aimee Bock's access to confidential case documents after she allegedly directed her sons to send the files to reporters and elected officials.As gas prices climb, drivers want to fill up at the gas station offering the cheapest gas. One south Minneapolis independent gas station with cheaper prices says it's seeing heavier traffic since the start of the war in Iran.

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota has gotten warmer and wetter over the last century. It's one sign of a changing climate being seen in the state. As we continue to learn about the impacts of climate change, state leaders are taking steps to hold big companies accountable for their role in contributing to climate change. One route has been through the courts. Another has been through legislation that would make fossil fuel companies pay for their emissions. To learn where these efforts stand, MPR News host Nina Moini spoke with two guests who have been keeping an eye on these efforts in Minnesota and across the U.S. James Coleman is a professor of law at the University of Minnesota. And Margaret Barry is a climate litigation fellow at the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia University.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz says today's execution of search warrants at multiple locations across the Twin Cities is an example of state and federal agencies working together.The federal Department of Homeland Security says the warrants are part of an ongoing criminal investigation related to fraud. The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families confirmed the operation, saying it stems from information it shared with state and federal law enforcement.That story and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

Many Black women share similar stories about the horror and health challenges of giving birth, but nobody was listening—until now.  The Maternal and Child Health staff at the Minnesota Department of Health wants to hear from you about what it is like to have a baby in Minnesota. Link: https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/womeninfants/womenshealth/story.html

Can controlled drainage make that big of a difference in drainage flow, nitrogen loss, and overall yields? A research project in the Midwest has been studying that question since 2017, and the findings might surprise you.Guest host Trey Allis sits down with Jeppe Kjaersgaard, a research scientist studying drainage, nitrogen management, and irrigation. Jeppe traces his journey from the family farm in Denmark to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, shares results from his controlled drainage field study, and makes a compelling case for collaborating with people across the ag industry.Jeppe and Trey talk through the methods and findings of a controlled drainage comparison study in Wilkin County, Minnesota. The project includes two sites: a 160-acre field used to gather data on controlled drainage and a 65-acre plot used to explore the impacts of a saturated buffer. Jeppe shares what he's learning about how different water management methods impact drainage flow, nitrogen loss, and overall yields.Trey and Jeppe also discuss the Conservation Drainage Network, an organization made up of researchers, drainage professionals, and interest organizations, as well as federal, state, and local conservation district staff. Jeppe talks about the benefits of such a network and how it can help increase adoption of different conservation drainage practices.Learn more about the Red River Drainage Water Management Project: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/protecting/cleanwaterfund/onfarmprojects/rrvdwmprojectCheck out the Conservation Drainage Network: https://conservationdrainage.net/Chapters:00:00 - Introductions01:42 - From Denmark to Minnesota04:50 - Local differences and global similarities06:45 - Minnesota Department of Agriculture work08:27 - Controlled drainage comparison project13:20 - Highlights and learnings of project17:38 - Measuring drainage flow, nitrogen loss, and yields20:00 - Cost analysis and planning for the future21:58 - Saturated buffer impacts on nitrogen and water flow26:19 - Using project data to set standards27:47 - The Conservation Drainage Network35:47 - Drainage is a key piece of the whole ag picture41:40 - ClosingRelated Content:#142: Minnesota's coolest drainage plots#98: Exploring Discovery Farms: A lesson in doing the homework#110: Bridging the gap between water management research and applicationJeppe Kjaersgaard on the 2026 Discovery Farms Minnesota Controlled Drainage WebinarFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes and water management education.

Did you know that you can help prevent autism fraud? Sheletta chats with Minnesota Department of Human Services Inspector General James Clark who talks about ways to guard against it, how to protect your personal information from scammers and what to look out for when choosing an autism service provider. If your child is getting services from someone and something seems off, trust your gut and report it to the MN DHS fraud hotline at 651-431-2650 or 1-800-657-3750 You can also go online mn.gov/dhs/report-fraud.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is under scrutiny after admitting that fraudsters targeted its $100 million small business grant program, the Minnesota Promise Act. Commissioner Matt Varilek acknowledged that safeguards, while in place, aren't foolproof. An investigation revealed that some grant recipients may not have met eligibility requirements, raising questions about the allocation of taxpayer dollars. DEED is reevaluating businesses featured in the report and has referred 76 potentially fraudulent applications to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. They've already clawed back approximately $10,000. Lawmakers are pressing for answers and changes to the program, highlighting the need for greater oversight and accountability in the distribution of public funds to prevent future fraud and ensure the money reaches the intended recipients.

 Looking for something fun for your high-functioning autistic child to do this summer? The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers many outdoor skills programs for beginners. From overnight camping trips to fishing lessons, there's bound to be something fun and exciting for your children to enjoy. https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/index.html

  This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we get an in‑depth update from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, focusing on Veteran care, advocacy, and support services available to Veterans and their families across Minnesota. Commissioner Brad Lindsay joins the show to discuss current priorities, statewide initiatives, and how the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs continues […] The post MDVA Update: Veteran Care Programs and Veterans Day on the Hill appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

No mammal represents Minnesota's north shore better than the moose. The winter of 2026 has been busy and significant for these majestic animals.  Through the Northern Moose Alliance (www.moosealliance.org), a joint effort between Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 1854 Treaty Authority, Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation, 60 juvenile moose were collared to launch a study on why the moose population has seen a 60% decline in recent years. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Michelle Carstensen, Wildlife Health Group Leader for the Minnesota's DNR about the project and the partnerships that have come together to better learn about the region's moose.We'd love to keep you updated as this work evolves and share ways you can help protect moose as opportunities arise. Join the Northern Moose Alliance's quarterly newsletter for exclusive updates, expert moose insights, and actions you can take: https://moosealliance.org/subscribe/ Quotes“It's been a very moose-filled winter for us, which, if you ask me, is a great way to spend the winter.” “What we want to know is how many can survive over winter and at what age they become reproductively contributing to the population.”“We were missing that middle cohort of animals, which is a huge driver if you want to have a population that's going to grow.”“We're trying to understand why the moose population has been kind of stagnant.”“It's our role as stewards to try to help this population thrive.”Connect With Us:Northern Moose Alliance Website – https://moosealliance.org Lake Superior Podcast Page – https://nplsf.org/podcastFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/NationalParksOfLakeSuperiorFoundationSponsors:Cafe Imports – Minneapolis-based importers of specialty green coffees since 1993, focused on sustainability. Learn more: cafeimports.comNational Parks of Lake Superior Foundation – Donate to protect Lake Superior's five national parks: nplsf.org/donate

This is a time of real uncertainty for agriculture in Minnesota. Crop prices are fluctuating, the cost of fuel and fertilizer remains high, and tariffs and global trade uncertainty are adding another layer of pressure on farmers trying to make a profit. As spring planting season begins, farmers need to make some big decisions — facing a lot of unknowns. For many families, farming is not just tied to income, but to identity, tradition, and generations of work. So when things feel unstable, the impact goes far beyond the farm. MPR News host Angela Davis talks about how Minnesota farmers are managing the challenges.Guests:Thom Petersen is the commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Before being appointed commissioner, he was the director of government relations for the Minnesota Farmers Union. He has spent most of his life working for a horse and farm business. Megan Horsager is a farmer in Chippewa County. She works on Stevens farms with her family, where they raise sugar beets, corn, soybeans, alfalfa and silage. Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or RSS. Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.   

In Minnesota, high school students can earn college credit for proficiency in a language besides English. The Minnesota Bilingual Seals Program has been around since 2014 to help recognize multilingualism as an asset. The program recognizes 32 languages and this year for the very first time, a student was awarded a World Language Proficiency Certificate for Ojibwe. Tecumseh Fahrlander is a senior at Hinckley-Finlayson High School and is a member of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. He spoke with Minnesota Now host Nina Moini about the experience alongside Annie Huberty, the director of American Indian education at the Minnesota Department of Education.

As spring fieldwork ramps up across Minnesota, many farmers and applicators will soon begin applying anhydrous ammonia. With tight weather windows and increasing pressure to get into fields, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture urges everyone who handles NH3 to make safety their top priority. Accidents involving anhydrous ammonia can result in severe, life‑threatening injuries when proper precautions are not followed. Source: Minnesota Department of AgricultureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring is here, which means construction season is upon us - but it also means more people on the road and more people driving distracted. Minnesota Department of Public Safety is cracking down this next month on distracted driving incidents and some are weighing in on ways in which we can further implement safety restrictions with distracted driving!

Back in the 1970s, a Canadian ice researcher developed a formula to determine how thick lake ice needed to be for logging trucks to drive across. It helps inform the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' ice safety guidelines today. Reporter Kim Hyatt talks with host Erica Pearson about the history and science of ice roads.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Dr. Ruth Lynfield about the importance of syphilis awareness and public health education. She explains that anyone who is sexually active can contract syphilis, but emphasizes that it can be easily detected through a simple blood test at a clinic. Dr. Lynfield highlights the serious risks of untreated syphilis, particularly during pregnancy, where it can cause significant harm to babies. She also reassures listeners that syphilis is curable with proper treatment, underscoring the importance of regular testing and early intervention. 

Season 6, Episode 281 Key U.S. News: Fire Readiness, Sky Explosions, Wildlife Impacts & Rancher Relief Spring Means Wildfire Preparations According to Wildfire Today, it's been 40 years since the United States' western region has experienced this low of snowpack near winter's end, setting the stage for what many fear will be an early and extreme peak wildfire season. Not only does low snowpack worsen environmental conditions and increase the possibility of extreme fires, but it also limits the window to safely set prescribed burns during the spring. As winter fades and temperatures rise, spring marks the beginning of wildfire season in many parts of the country—especially in areas expecting dry conditions. If forecasts point to drought, early preparation can make a critical difference in protecting your home, land, and outdoor experiences. Preparing Your Property for Wildfire Season Getting ahead of wildfire risk starts right outside your door. Spring is the ideal time to reduce fuel sources and create defensible space around your property. Clear and Maintain Defensible Space Remove dry leaves, dead grass, and fallen branches from around your home and outbuildings. Trim trees so branches are at least 6–10 feet away from structures and keep grass short. Fire spreads quickly through dry, continuous vegetation—breaking that chain is key. Plan Water Access If you're in a rural area, make sure hoses, pumps, or water tanks are functional and accessible. Clearly mark water sources for emergency responders if possible. Using Prescribed Burning Responsibly Prescribed, or controlled, burning can be a powerful tool for reducing wildfire risk when done correctly. What Is Prescribed Burning? Prescribed burning involves intentionally setting small, controlled fires under specific weather conditions to remove excess vegetation. This reduces the amount of fuel available for larger, uncontrolled wildfires. When and How to Do It Spring is often a safer window due to cooler temperatures and higher moisture levels—but only under the right conditions. Always: Check local regulations and permits Monitor wind speed and direction Have firefighting tools on hand (water, shovels, firebreaks) If you're inexperienced, consider working with local fire officials or trained professionals. Stay Alert: Fire Bans and Weather Warnings During drought conditions, fire risk can change rapidly. Staying informed is just as important as physical preparation. Monitor Local Fire Restrictions Counties and states often issue burn bans or restrictions when conditions become dangerous. These rules can change weekly—or even daily—based on weather patterns. Pay attention to: Open burn bans Equipment restrictions (like chains or welding) Campfire limitations Ignoring these rules can lead to fines—and far worse, accidental wildfires. Watch the Weather High winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures create the perfect storm for fire spread. Even routine activities like mowing or towing a trailer can spark fires under the wrong conditions. Camping During Fire Season: Staying Safe and Responsible Outdoor recreation doesn't have to stop during fire season—but it does require extra care and awareness. Understand Fire Ban Levels Not all fire bans are the same. Some allow campfires in designated rings, while others prohibit all open flames. Before heading out, check: Park or forest service websites Campground postings Local ranger stations Safe Alternatives to Campfires If campfires are restricted, you can still enjoy the camping experience: Use propane camp stoves (if allowed) Bring LED lanterns for ambiance Prepare no-cook or pre-cooked meals If Campfires Are Allowed When conditions permit fires: Use established fire rings only Keep fires small and manageable Never leave a fire unattended Fully extinguish with water—stir ashes until cool to the touch A good rule: if it's too hot to touch, it's too hot to leave. Meteor Boom Heard Across Multiple States A loud boom that startled people across parts of the Midwest and East Coast has been traced back to a small asteroid, according to NASA. The object—about 6 feet wide and weighing roughly 7 tons—entered Earth's atmosphere on the morning of March 17, 2026. As it broke apart high above the ground, it released energy equal to about 250 tons of TNT. That explosion created a pressure wave, producing the booming sounds heard across at least 10 states, including Ohio and Pennsylvania. The event was widely seen and reported, with eyewitnesses spotting a bright fireball streaking across the sky. Some of those sightings were confirmed by the National Weather Service, which used lightning-detection satellite tools to help identify the meteor. Experts say the boom was likely a sonic boom caused by the asteroid breaking apart at high speed. Despite the dramatic sight and sound, there are no reports of debris reaching the ground, suggesting the object burned up in the atmosphere. In short, it was a brief but powerful space event—visible across a wide region, but ultimately harmless. Reference: https://weather.com/science/space/news/2026-03-17-cleveland-boom-meteor-national-weather-service Minnesota Corn Spill Draws Deer Onto Tracks, Leading to Mass Deaths In northern Minnesota, a spilled load of corn from a train has unintentionally created a deadly situation for local wildlife. Over the past several weeks, more than 100 whitetail deer are believed to have been killed after being drawn onto railroad tracks to feed on corn scattered along an 80–90 mile stretch from Thief River Falls to the Canadian border. Residents say a railcar carrying salted corn likely opened in transit, spilling grain along the tracks. The easy food source has attracted deer and other animals, especially during a harsh winter when food is scarce. But the tracks also pose a danger: deer tend to stay on them to avoid deep snow, making it difficult to escape oncoming trains. Local landowner Steve Porter has documented the scene, reporting widespread carcasses and heavy deer activity along the railway. He estimates the death toll could range between 100 and 200 animals. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed the spill, noting that such accidents do happen, though they rarely coincide with times when deer are most vulnerable. Officials have already euthanized at least 13 injured deer in the area and warn that more dead animals may be discovered once the snow melts. Residents continue to express concern as the situation unfolds, calling it an unusually severe wildlife loss tied to an avoidable accident. Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/railway-corn-spill-dead-deer California Sends $3.5 Million to Ranchers Coping With Gray Wolves Wildlife officials in California say more than three-and-a-half million dollars has now been distributed to livestock producers dealing with the return of gray wolves. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says about $3.52 million has been paid out through the state's Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program, which was created by the California Legislature to help ranchers offset costs tied to wolf activity. The program offers support in three different ways. Ranchers can receive payments for confirmed livestock losses caused by wolves, “pay-for-presence” payments when wolves are documented in an area, and funding for deterrent tools aimed at preventing conflicts between wolves and livestock. Most of the money so far has gone to ranchers in Northern California, where wolf activity has been most concentrated. Counties receiving funding include Siskiyou County, Lassen County, Modoc County, Plumas County, Shasta County, Sierra County and Tulare County. According to the department's data, Siskiyou County has received the largest share, with payments topping two million dollars. Other counties, including Lassen, Modoc, and Plumas,   have received smaller amounts to help producers respond to wolf-related impacts. The compensation program was developed after the return of the Gray Wolf to California in the early 2010s. Wildlife officials say the effort is meant to support ranchers while the state continues managing the recovering wolf population. State officials say they'll keep working with eligible producers to distribute remaining funds, and application information is available through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Reference: https://www.sierradailynews.com/local/california-distributes-over-3-5-million-to-ranchers-affected-by-gray-wolves/ OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates! https://thebendshow.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC' Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation. With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God's Country and life on the land. United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They're here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day. To learn more about Tigger & BEC's journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com. https://tiggerandbec.com/

The first big deadline for action in the 2026 legislative session is quickly approaching at the Capitol. While committee hearings will be churning at full steam next week, a number of bills are delayed or stuck in the tied Minnesota House. But there's an area where measures have fielded bipartisan support: consumer protection. Legislation is on the march that deals with the prices people pay, defenses against scams and recourses available if they've been ripped off. MPR News politics editor Brian Bakst and his guests assess what consumer protection bills might make it into law this year. Later in the program, a check-in with the top state economic development official about paid leave, artificial intelligence and all that's changing our interactions with the workplace. Guests:DFL Rep. Erin Koegel of Spring Lake Park Republican Sen. Jordan Rasmusson of Fergus FallsMatt Varilek, commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.  Dana Ferguson, political correspondent for MPR NewsPeter Cox, correspondent for MPR NewsUse the audio player above to listen to the full conversation or subscribe to the Politics Friday podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or RSS.

Planning for the next generation to take on the family farm can be a huge stressor on farmers. According to a recent analysis by Farm Journal, nearly 15 percent of American cropland is projected to change hands by 2030. Yet, many producers have no formal succession plans in place. Over the winter, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture along with University of Minnesota Extension and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, are helping farmers with that transition through retreats. Jim Molenaar supports farmers with succession planning and presents at the retreats. He joined Minnesota Now to talk more about his work.

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Steve Grove, CEO and Publisher of the Minnesota Star Tribune, and the author of “How I Found Myself in the Midwest”. Steve has built a career at the intersection of public service, economic development, and civic leadership. From leading statewide crisis response as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development under Tim Walz to now guiding one of the nation's most influential regional newspapers through a period of profound transformation. Grove's work reflects a consistent belief in the power of local institutions. His leadership during the crisis is grounded in the idea that trust, accountability, and meaningful change are built through local government, local journalism, and community partnerships. Today, he is steering the 158-year-old Star Tribune toward a digital future while preserving its civic mission and navigating an era defined by disruption and misinformation. 

The Crabby Coffee Shop hosts Faye Bernstein, a 20-year employee at the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Bernstein gives her first-hand report by telling you what happened when she questioned the suspicious activities occurring at DHS.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's been a rough year for Minnesota, so KT decided to do his civic duty and help out the city of Minnesota in what might qualify as the worst segment in the history of the Ben & Skin show.

SummaryIn this episode of The Newfangled Lawyer Podcast, Patrick Patino interviews Cody Blades, a solo attorney who shares her journey of breaking barriers in the legal profession, particularly for female attorneys. Cody discusses innovative business development strategies, the importance of building community, and the need for empathy and kindness in legal practice. She emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries and understanding one's ideal client, while also drawing insights from other industries to enhance legal practices. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of law and the importance of personal growth and balance in a demanding profession.About CodyCody Blades advises professionals and business owners who are facing disputes they cannot resolve on their own. With over a decade of experience, her background includes complexlitigation, jury trials in state and federal court, hundreds of negotiated settlements, and extensive experience before the Minnesota Department of Human Rights and the EqualEmployment Opportunity Commission on behalf of both employees and employers. She has also served as fractional in-house employment counsel to a large Minnesota closely heldcorporation, giving her a practical, business-focused perspective. While always prepared to litigate, Cody prioritizes early, strategic problem-solving that minimizes disruption and cost. She founded Blades Law to offer a nimble, outcome-driven alternative to traditional law firms—one that treats clients as partners and centers every decision on their goals.https://www.linkedin.com/in/codyblades/https://blades.law/TakeawaysCody Blades emphasizes the importance of breaking barriers for female attorneys.Business development should be integrated into personal interests and activities.Building community among female attorneys is crucial for support and growth.Client relationships are enhanced through personal connections and understanding.Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining work-life balance in law.Empathy and kindness should be at the forefront of legal practice.Innovative strategies from other industries can be applied to legal business development.Understanding your ideal client is key to effective marketing and outreach.Personal growth and self-care are vital for success in the legal profession.Embracing chaos and being flexible can lead to better outcomes in both personal and professional life.

Federal officials say they're ending a major immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota and beginning to draw down ICE agents after months of intensified activity. But lawyers and advocates say the consequences of that operation are still unfolding.Minnesota U.S. Attorney Dan Rosen on Thursday dropped charges against two men accused of assaulting an immigration officer. A judge Thursday temporarily blocked the Trump administration from cancelling $42 million in public health funding from the Minnesota Department of Health.

A kidney transplant recipient arrested by immigration agents in Rochester last week finally is getting the medication he needs to keep his body from rejecting the organ. But his attorney says his client is not getting the correct dosages at the right times.The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is proposing new catch limits for native rough fish. For more than a century, native rough fish like redhorse, bowfin and buffalo were lumped in with invasive species like common carp — and not considered worthy of protection or management. If approved, the new rules would take effect for the 2027 fishing season.

President Trump is hitting the road today, traveling to Iowa to kick off campaign events for this year's Midterm Elections in hopes that Republicans can keep control of both the House and the Senate. Recently, Republicans' messaging has centered around restoring "common sense and sanity" in government and putting more money back in the pockets of working families. Iowa Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson is running for Senator Joni Ernst's seat. She joins the Rundown to discuss her plans to address Americans' concerns and the importance of agriculture.As House Republicans prepare a series of high-stakes hearings into widespread fraud in Minnesota, taxpayers and lawmakers are asking a critical question: how deep does the rabbit hole go? Federal prosecutions have already exposed a $250 million scheme involving the Feeding Our Future nonprofit, and a new wave of allegations surrounding the state's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) has brought Minnesota to the center of a national firestorm. Scott Dexter, a retired fraud investigator from the Minnesota Department of Human Services Inspector General's office, joins the Rundown to explain how the system failed, and whether Minnesota is just the beginning. Plus, commentary by Lee Hartley Carter, president of Maslansky and Partners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam and guest co-host Danger Van Gorder talk about the New Year's Eve killing of Los Angeles resident Keith Porter Jr. at the hands of an off duty ICE agent, Trump's threats to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minneapolis, a wave of resignations within the Minnesota Department of Justice, and so much more! Show notes: https://rebrand.ly/9c8158

1/18/2026The Healthy Matters PodcastS05_E07 - Getting Ahead on Brain HealthWith Special Guests:  Dr. Behnam Sabayan and Patty TakawiraIt's not uncommon that our functioning brains get taken for granted, right up until the point that things go awry.  But the truth is there's a spectrum to brain health and there are actually things we can do to help keep our brains healthy throughout our lives - beyond wearing a bike helmet (though that's important, too!).Brain health is an ever-changing science, and up until the last decade, we didn't really have much of an understanding around preventive care.  But that's changing quickly!  To get us up to speed on things, we'll be joined by Preventive Neurologist Dr. Behnam Sabayan (MD, PhD) and Patty Takawira (MPH) from the Minnesota Department of Health.  We'll go over the warning signs, preventative strategies, current understandings and the best ways to get the jump on keeping our brains healthy.Early detection is key, and it's never too late to help your own cause.  But it all comes down to awareness and knowledge, so come get wise with us!Brain Health Awareness Day is January 22nd!Find out more here!Got healthcare questions or ideas for future shows?Email - healthymatters@hcmed.orgCall - 612-873-TALK (8255)Get a preview of upcoming shows on social media and find out more about our show at www.healthymatters.org.

The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 4: 6:05pm- According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, a woman was shot and killed by immigration agents in Minnesota after attempting to run over ICE agents. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey accused ICE of “causing chaos and distrust” and stated: “To ICE, get the f*ck out of Minneapolis.” 6:10pm- On Wednesday, the House Oversight Committee heard testimony from Minnesota state officials regarding the billions-of-dollars lost to welfare fraud. During one exchange, it was revealed that in March 2021 the Minnesota Department of Education suspended payments to the Feeding Our Future program over fears of fraud. Though the payments quickly resumed after state officials were baselessly accused of halting payments due to “racial discrimination.” 6:30pm- Department of Homeland Sec. Kristi Noem held a press conference—providing the latest details about a woman who was shot and killed by immigration agents in Minnesota after she appeared to attempt to run over ICE agents.

The Rich Zeoli Show- Full Episode (01/07/2026): 3:05pm- Could the U.S. purchase Greenland from Denmark? Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggests it could be a possibility. But the New York Times argues that purchasing the territory isn't necessary, as a Cold War agreement grants the United States “sweeping military access in Greenland.” 3:20pm- According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, a woman was shot and killed by immigration agents in Minnesota after attempting to run over ICE agents. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey accused ICE of “causing chaos and distrust” and stated: “To ICE, get the f*ck out of Minneapolis.” 3:40pm- In a post to Truth Social, President Donald Trump wrote: “I have just viewed the clip of the event which took place in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is a horrible thing to watch. The woman screaming was, obviously, a professional agitator, and the woman driving the car was very disorderly, obstructing and resisting, who then violently, willfully, and viciously ran over the ICE Officer, who seems to have shot her in self-defense.” 4:00pm- Christine Hanlon—Chair of the New Jersey Republican Party—joins The Rich Zeoli Show. Hanlon was elected on Monday night and details how she plans to bounce back from the GOP's disappointing election cycle last November. 4:30pm- Pete Earle—Director of Economics at the American Institute for Economic—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss the economic impact of Venezuelan authoritarian Nicolas Maduro's removal from power. Plus, New York City's new Tenant Director Cea Weaver says that “people like home ownership because they like control—which is rooted in a racist and classist society.” Mayor Zohran Mamdani's term is off to an interesting start… 4:50pm- Rich goes to the shooting range! 5:00pm- On Wednesday, the Trump administration released its updated U.S. dietary guidelines. Every five years the Agriculture and Health and Human Services departments release updated recommendations. While speaking to the press, Sec. Robert Kennedy Jr. declared a “war on sugar” and implored Americans to “eat real food.” 5:20pm- Rich plays a video of his time at the shooting range—and it's impressive. Even YouTube commenters BogsChips and CornPopsRevenge agree! 5:30pm- Rich's BIG announcement: Beginning next week, The Rich Zeoli Show will take on a new form! The show will become a one-hour, nationally focused podcast which can be heard locally on 1210 WPHT from 6pm to 7pm! 5:40pm- Linda Kerns—Attorney & Pennsylvania Election Integrity Counsel for the Republican National Committee and Donald Trump—joins The Rich Zeoli Show! She discusses filling in for Zeoli over the show's holiday break, Elvis Pressley's birthday, and her continued fight to eliminate voter fraud. 6:05pm- According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, a woman was shot and killed by immigration agents in Minnesota after attempting to run over ICE agents. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey accused ICE of “causing chaos and distrust” and stated: “To ICE, get the f*ck out of Minneapolis.” 6:10pm- On Wednesday, the House Oversight Committee heard testimony from Minnesota state officials regarding the billions-of-dollars lost to welfare fraud. During one exchange, it was revealed that in March 2021 the Minnesota Department of Education suspended payments to the Feeding Our Future program over fears of fraud. Though the payments quickly resumed after state officials were baselessly accused of halting payments due to “racial discrimination.” 6:30pm- Department of Homeland Sec. Kristi Noem held a press conference—providing the latest details about a woman who was shot and killed by immigration agents in Minnesota after she appeared to attempt to run over ICE agents.

Dan Mandis (WTN-Nashville) fills in for Gary McNamara and Eric Harley. In part two of the Red Eye Radio podcast, Dan continues his discussion of potential Democrat presidential primary candidates including Gavin Newsom who has nothing good for California, yet some say he has the momentum / More on the alleged Somali fraud / The Minnesota Department of Children head Tikki Brown responds to Nick Shirley's fraud video as Democrats run for cover / Reports of wide spread fraud across the nation include home health care fraud in Ohio. For more talk on the issues that matter to you, listen on radio stations across America Monday-Friday 12am-5am CT (1am-6am ET and 10pm-3am PT), download the RED EYE RADIO SHOW app, asking your smart speaker, or listening at RedEyeRadioShow.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whistleblower Allegations Over 400 employees from the Minnesota Department of Health and Human Services claim they warned Governor Walz about the fraud early but faced retaliation instead of cooperation. Allegations include monitoring, threats, and discrediting of fraud reports. Nature of the Fraud Fraud reportedly involved members of the Somali diaspora misappropriating millions from Medicaid autism programs. Funds allegedly sent overseas to terrorist organizations like Al-Shabaab. Nearly 100 autism clinics investigated for fraudulent billing. Political Dimension Walz ignored the issue for political gain, citing the Somali community’s voting power. Democrats were prioritizing votes over accountability. Media Criticism Mainstream media downplayed the scandal. NBC’s interview with Walz was “softball” at best, allowing him to deflect blame and attack Donald Trump. Governor’s Response Walz acknowledges responsibility for prosecuting offenders but rejects demonizing an entire community. Minnesota’s prosperity and social programs were blaming federal cuts for oversight challenges. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.