News Release

Bemidji, Mn. - In an effort to control the spread of weeds along the south shore of Lake Bemidji and State Highway 197 (Paul Bunyan Drive), the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT), along with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (Mn/DNR), will be conducting a controlled burn beginning at around 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13th according to Larry Puchalski, Mn/DOT's District 2 Environmental Specialist.

Puchalski said the controlled burn will allow the ground to warm more quickly and green up sooner.

Puchalski added, "As new growth takes place, Mn/DOT will conduct periodic spot spraying on noxious weeds using herbicides recommended by the DNR."

Mn/DOT is advising drivers to keep alert when traveling through the area and to be prepared for any vehicles slowing down or making sudden stops.