9/25/2026

N. WISCONSIN - Northern Wisconsin is facing some of its most severe drought conditions on record. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows parts of Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas, Iron, and Sawyer counties in “exceptional drought,” its most severe category. It’s only the second time Wisconsin has reached that level since records began in 1999. About 15 percent of the state is in extreme drought, while 26 percent is in severe drought. Bayfield County also had its fourth-driest August on record. The drought conditions expected to make fall colors appear duller this year.  Peak Color is expected October 4^th through the 10^th for much of our region. 

9/25/2026

IRONWOOD - Ironwood Area Schools is preparing voters for a proposed 12-point five-million-dollar bond on the November third ballot. Superintendent Dan Martinson says the bond would fund school improvements without raising the district’s mill rate, so it would not add to property taxes. The district will hold a bond information night on October 14th, including facility tours. Martinson also reported enrollment has fallen to 692 students, about 40 fewer than last year and 100 fewer than September 2024.

9/25/2026

N. WISCONSIN - State natural resources officials are urging campers, travelers and homeowners to source their firewood locally this fall to prevent spreading invasive pests and tree-killing diseases across Wisconsin.  Insects and fungal diseases, including spongy moths, emerald ash borers, Asian longhorned beetles and oak wilt, frequently lurk inside or on harvested wood. When untreated firewood is transported from where it was cut, those pests can emerge in new locations.  Campers are advised to buy firewood on-site or from nearby vendors rather than transporting logs from home or picking them up along the highway. Officials also urge travelers to leave any unused wood behind rather than packing it back home.