Seaplanes have patrolled northern Minnesota forests for nearly a century. They're ready for this fire season
Three planes help monitor and fight wildfires in Superior National Forest, the most at-risk national forest east of the Mississippi.
Environment
60 posts
It’s Wildfire Season: Explore it with Project Optimist
Those who study the forest, including biologists and Indigenous firekeepers, say that our forest is not healthy. It is a fire-dependent ecosystem, filled with tree and plant species that require fire to reproduce.
Drawn by Nature: Citizen science helps counter climate anxiety
Volunteers fill data gaps, help with vital programs
The new green economy: Building a resilient urban forest
With diminishing public money for urban forestry, carbon offset markets are rising to meet funding gaps. One small nonprofit is leading the way in Minnesota.
'We are rebels': Indigenous women take lead on climate action at COP28
Fredi Ponce Parra, a student at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University, writes about how Indigenous women made their voices heard at COP28 in Dubai.
Spent nuclear fuel contains 90% of its original energy – so why aren't we recycling it?
Nuclear at a Crossroads, Part VI: Experts say low uranium prices, the high cost of recycling, and fears of proliferation have all factored into the decision.
Political polarization and climate change mitigation at COP28
Kathryn Boyer, a student at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University, writes about the intersection of her research and the real world from the COP28 conference.
Community Voices ⎸ Finding joy in winter
Project Optimist readers and staff marvel at the beauty of winter.
Community Voices ⎸ Bio·phil·ia: A new grant for our new program on nature, design, and connection to the living world
Thanks to a grant from Arts Midwest, Project Optimist will feature essays, visual art, and design about connecting with the natural world in 2024.