Taras the lion escaped Ukraine in a duffel bag as a cub. Years later in Pine County, he nearly died from fungal spores in the soil.

Utility campsites are booked at Baylor Regional Park, but primitive and group spots remain for next weekend's stargazing event.

Two owls were brought to the University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center after becoming tangled in soccer nets. The center says taking down the nets could prevent the next rescue.

State bonding and years of neighborhood fundraising have cleared the way to rebuild Loring Park’s Berger Fountain and add a new plaza and seating. Early vault work has already begun.

The U.S. Forest Service has banned tents and pop‑up campers at West Winnie Campground from July 1–Oct. 13, 2026, citing frequent black bear activity; fines apply.

Carver County closed the swimming beach at Baylor Regional Park after suspected blue‑green algae was reported on Eagle Lake. Officials warn visitors and pet owners to avoid water contact while tests are conducted.

State agencies awarded $20 million to 26 projects restoring habitat and river access along PFAS‑impacted waterways in the Twin Cities east metro.

Ramsey's Waterfront opens today with a 17,000-sq-ft plaza, 90 interactive nozzles, shade pavilions and reservable spaces. A new spot for cooling off this summer.

Three Minneapolis beaches were closed after routine tests found E. coli; park officials say recent heavy rain likely carried bacteria into the lakes and no illnesses have been reported.

Saint Paul has opened a survey and advisory meetings to shape a 20–30-year long-range plan for Harriet Island. Officials say community input will guide riverfront investments and events.

Minnesota added Becker, Clearwater, Grant, McLeod and Meeker to its deer feeding and attractant ban, expanding the restriction to 37 counties as officials respond to new CWD detections.

A new quarter-mile riverfront trail has opened in North Minneapolis, offering a preview of parkland and an amphitheater rising on the Upper Harbor site.

Park leaders are weighing whether the Minnehaha off‑leash dog park should be closed or moved after tribes say the land is part of the sacred Coldwater Spring footprint.