Minnesota DNR Celebrates National Volunteer Week

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is celebrating National Volunteer Week, April 19th through the 25th, by recognizing thousands of Minnesotans who help protect the state’s outdoors. A new report shows more than 13,500 volunteers supported DNR projects in 2025, from trail work and tree planting to fish tagging and rainfall monitoring.

Officials say volunteer service was valued at about nine million dollars last year. Minnesota also led the nation for the sixth straight year in recruiting volunteers for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. To learn more or sign up to volunteer, visit the Minnesota DNR volunteering webpage.

Smith and Klobuchar Urge DHS to Release LIHEAP Funding

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith are urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to release remaining federal energy assistance funds for states, including Minnesota. In a letter to HHS and budget director Russ Vought, the senators say the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program has already helped more than 100,000 Minnesota households this winter, preventing over 17,000 service disruptions. They warn delays could pause aid for vulnerable families and seniors who rely on help paying heating and cooling costs.

While Outdoor Temps Rise, Water Temps Remain Cold 

While the temperatures outside are getting warmer, water temperatures across Northern Minnesota remain very cold. The warmer temperatures can give a false sense of security to people when it comes to water safety, leaving an increased risk of Hypothermia. Carma Hansen of SAFE Kids Grand Forks explains what Hypothermia is and how the body reacts to being submerged in cold water. 

Hansen explains how you should respond to falling into the cold water, so that you can teach your child how to respond. 

If you or your child is showing signs of hypothermia get them to a warm location, and seek medical help immediately.