As warm weather returns to northern Minnesota, more cyclists are taking to the roads and trails across Roseau County, Lake of the Woods County, and surrounding areas. 

During National Bike Safety Month, MnDOT officials are reminding both riders and drivers to stay alert and share the road. Cyclists are encouraged to check their bikes, wear properly fitted helmets, and use reflective clothing or lights, especially during early morning or evening rides. 

Drivers are also asked to give bicyclists extra room and watch carefully when opening vehicle doors or approaching shoulders and intersections. 

Officials say with busy summer tourism and outdoor recreation season approaching across northern Minnesota, simple safety habits can help prevent serious crashes and keep everyone safe on the road. More safety tips are available on MnDOT’s website.

Another Minnesota Legislative Session is in the books, and one item to come out of this year’s session was a bonding bill. R&J News had the opportunity to catch up with Red River Watershed Management Board Executive Director Rob Sip, who says the funding falls well short of what’s needed in both the Red River Valley, and the State of Minnesota as a whole. 

When it comes to what projects will pursue funding, Sip says they have three projects in the Red River Valley that will likely be applying for part of this $9 Million in state funding. 

You can learn more about the Red River Watershed Management Board by going to their website www.rrwmb.us.