On Wednesday, Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown) attended a press conference and briefing with federal and state officials about current conditions facing Northern Minnesota. 

“The ongoing wildfires across our region are a serious and dangerous situation, but local, state, and federal resources are being mobilized to contain these fires and to help those affected by them. I am incredibly grateful for the brave men and women on the frontlines working around the clock to combat these fires and to keep people safe,” said Sen. Hauschild. “Right now, the most important thing people can do is to follow the directives of local authorities as the situation on the ground evolves. My office is ready to assist anyone in any way we can, and I encourage people to reach out immediately if they need help.”

As of Wednesday afternoon, wildfires were covering 55,000 acres across Northern Minnesota, leading to the closure of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, localized evacuations, and air quality alerts across the region and state. Earlier Wednesday morning, Minnesota’s Emergency Executive Council extended the Governor’s Executive Order 26-08, authorizing state assistance and support to impacted areas for an additional 30 days beyond August 11.

For those looking to assist people and communities affected by the ongoing fires, Senator Hauschild encourages donations to the United Way of Northeastern Minnesota at https://www.unitedwaynemn.org/. 

Constituents with questions or in need of assistance can email Senator Hauschild at [email protected] or by phone at 651-296-1789.

Additional Resources

MCIS Website: https://mnics.org/wpress/superior-national-forest-wildfires-fact-sheet-2/ 

DNR Wildfire Update: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/wildfire_update.html 

Air Quality Alerts: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air-water-land-climate/current-air-quality-conditions