Northern Minnesota residents are being reminded to stay mindful of the heat as summer weather settles into Roseau and Lake of the Woods counties. Warmer temperatures, increased outdoor activity, and longer days can raise the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Health officials encourage people to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even before they feel thirsty. Staying hydrated is especially important for those working outdoors, participating in recreational activities, or spending extended periods in the sun. 

Wearing lightweight clothing and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day will also help reduce the risk of heat-related illness.

Residents should also be aware of the warning signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion, which can include dizziness, headaches, excessive sweating, fatigue, nausea, muscle cramps, and confusion. The Institute of Medicine recommends men consume about 13 cups of fluids per day, while women should aim for approximately 9 cups daily, with additional fluids often needed during peak hot weather and physical activity.

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc

Rainy River, Ontario — Rainy River First Nations is reminding visitors that sturgeon spawning in the Manitou Rapids are a sacred and protected species and must not be handled or removed without permission.

In a statement this week, the nation says the annual sturgeon spawn is a remarkable event that draws visitors to the rapids, but concerns have been raised after fish have been reportedly taken and handled without authorization.

Rainy River First Nations says it supports respectful observation of the spawning process and has previously granted permission to other First Nations seeking small numbers of fish for ceremonial purposes.

To help protect the sturgeon and ensure the spawning grounds are respected, members of the nation will be monitoring activity at the rapids. Officials say no one is permitted to touch or remove sturgeon unless permission has been expressly granted by Chief Jim Leonard.

The nation says the measures are necessary to protect the sacred fish and preserve a tradition that has existed for generations. For more information or questions, contact Chief Jim Leonard at jim.leonard@manitourapids.ca or by calling 807-276-2795.