Local Interest

DNR, others responding to changing conditions With the latest drought map showing 11.1 percent of Minnesota in the severe drought classification, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is taking additional preparation and response steps, including: The DNR is notifying (such as municipalities, irrigators, golf courses and other high water use businesses) with DNR … [Read more...] about More Minnesota counties experiencing severe drought

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking residents and visitors to use extreme caution with campfires and fireworks this holiday weekend due to expected statewide high fire danger. Drought conditions continue to expand, and burning restrictions remain in effect for several north-central Minnesota counties. An unintentional spark in these dry conditions could … [Read more...] about High fire danger across Minnesota this holiday weekend

In the past several weeks the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office has seen an increase in incidents at several Stearns County Parks. Quarry Park in Waite Park has experienced a large number of thefts, fights, alcohol, and drug violations. This week, the Sheriff’s Office will be implementing several methods to keep our parks safe and to foster a sense of security for those … [Read more...] about Increased Patrol Response in County Parks

On June 19, 2021 at approximately 12:55 pm, the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a report of a one-vehicle crash near Highway 238 and 415th Street in Krain Township. The caller reported that the occupant of the vehicle had injuries to his wrist and back pain. Upon arrival, responders found the driver, Jerome Klein, 69, of St. Joseph, was … [Read more...] about Krain Township Crash

It’s been a deadly start to the open-water season in Minnesota. As of June 16, as many as nine people have been victims of boating fatalities. That number, which is preliminary, marks the most fatalities at this point of the year in more than a decade. In addition, a higher-than-average number of people have drowned at places like beaches and swimming pools. Officials … [Read more...] about DNR stresses safety after deadly few weeks on the water