Minnesota DNR Celebrates 150 Years of Arbor Day, Plants 2 Million Seedlings

Minnesotans are marking 150 years of Arbor Day with a renewed push to “plant it forward.” The state first observed Arbor Day in 1876, making it one of the earliest adopters in the nation, and now extends the celebration through Arbor Month each May.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says residents are encouraged to plant and care for trees, with community events, neighborhood plantings, and ongoing maintenance of existing trees.

At the same time, the DNR is planting nearly 2 million tree seedlings this spring across more than 3,000 acres of state-managed land. Foresters say the effort supports long-term forest health, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience. Officials add the goal is to ensure Minnesota’s forests continue growing for generations to come.

Warroad Honors Steve Hagen’s 30 Years with Chamber at Town Hall

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

Warroad, Minn — Warroad residents gathered at Warroad High School Theater for the April Townhall Meeting last week.

One of the highlights of the evening was honoring Chamber President Steve Hagen for 30 years of service to the Warroad Chamber. City leaders and community members thanked Hagen for his decades of leadership and commitment to local business and growth.

Hagen reflected on how much the community has evolved during his time with the Chamber.

Hagen also pointed to how the Chamber is adapting to keep up with those changes—especially online. He says the Chamber now operates two separate websites designed to serve different purposes, while still working together to support the community.

The town hall wrapped up with updates on ongoing projects and a continued focus on strengthening Warroad’s business community.

Warroad Robotics Team Prepares for Worlds and Houston Highlights

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc

Warroad, Minn — Warroad’s FRED Robotics team is packing up and heading south.

On Monday, the group leaves Minnesota for Houston, Texas, where they’ll compete on the world stage at the FIRST Robotics Championships beginning Thursday.

FRED Instructor Jeremy Culleton says for these students, the trip is about more than just competition. On Wednesday, the team will have time to explore Houston and take part in a tradition that’s quickly becoming a team favorite—a visit to the Johnson Space Center.

For many of the students, it’s a chance to see real-world engineering in action, and maybe even spark ideas for future robots, or future careers.

Don’t forget to join us Thursday morning on KQ92 and KRWB for the start of our 2026 Robotics coverage.

Warroad School Board Maps Out the Year Ahead

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

Warroad, Minn — The Warroad School Board met in session last week and discussed several important topics, including the 2026–2027 school year.

Leaders in the Warroad School District are already looking ahead, mapping out priorities for students and staff at Warroad High School and across the district. Superintendent Dr. Shawn Yates said early planning is key, even if it comes with a few challenges.

Yates noted that preparing this far in advance can be complex, from budgeting to staffing, but it also gives the district a stronger foundation.

In a small district like Warroad, those early decisions can have a big impact in the classroom. Board members say planning now helps keep things running smoothly once students return.

Warroad Summer Theater Look Ahead for Rest of 2026

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

Warroad, Minn — Warroad Summer Theatre just wrapped up their show “Run for your Wife” at Rock Harbor Lodge. President of Warroad Summer Theatre Verna McVay shared some info about other productions coming up this year.

McVay also shares how volunteers throughout the community can get involved and help fill positions for these productions.

You can find more info about them on their website warroadsummertheatre.com.