Smoke in the Ely Area NOT FROM BWCAW

Smoke in the air is NOT from Boundary Waters:

FROM OUR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HERE IN ELY:



Most of the Ely area as well as other parts of Northeastern MN are experiencing a strong smoke smell from Canadian fires. The majority of the fires in Canada are being managed by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) Districts Red Lake and Sioux Lookout districts. These districts combined, have a total of 76 fires involving 654224 acres. Most of these fires are lightning caused and will be managed by the OMNR. The inversion this morning is causing the smoke to stay in the area. Increased wind speeds and lower humidity, will decrease the smell of smoke to the area. 


Tracy Richards,
Visitor Information Specialist
Superior National Forest
Kawishiwi Ranger District