 Governor Walz visited Lake of the Woods, including the Northwest Angle, Minnesota’s northernmost point, and Warroad. Joined by Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen, the Governor visited a DNR Forestry Office, toured construction on the Warroad Highway 11 bridge, and fished on Lake of the Woods. He also stopped at local shops and tourism destinations including Zippel Bay State Park in Williams, MN and the Shed, a classic and muscle car museum.
“From incredible walleye fishing to pristine state parks and some of the best people you’ll ever meet, the Northwest Angle captures what makes Minnesota so special,” said Governor Walz. “If you can, get outside, make the trip, and spend a few dollars in the towns and small businesses that make these places thrive. That support matters every day, and it matters even more for communities recovering from this summer’s fires.”
With more than 70 state parks and recreation areas, over 5,000 campsites, and more than 1,500 miles of state trails, Minnesota offers endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, and more. Under the Walz-Flanagan Administration, Minnesota’s nationally renowned state parks drew nearly 20% more visitors, while state parks and trails grew by 200 miles of state trails and two new campgrounds, and more than 18 million seedlings have been planted on state-managed lands, plus millions more on private lands and in communities supported by grants and cost-share to strengthen and protect the state’s natural resources for future generations.
The Northwest Angle, at 596.3 square miles with 473.2 square miles of water, is the northernmost point of the contiguous 48 states. Located on the Lake of the Woods and accessible by driving through Canada, it remains one of Minnesota’s most unique destinations. Known as the walleye capital of the world, Lake of the Woods offers world-class fishing, hunting, golfing, and a rich history that continues to draw visitors from around the world.
The Governor encourages Minnesotans to visit state parks, explore the outdoors, and support the local towns and businesses that make Minnesota’s outdoor heritage so strong, especially in communities still recovering from this summer’s fires.
Governor Walz ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota beginning immediately in honor and remembrance of Leslie R. Washington.
“Mr. Washington’s courage, bravery, and sacrifice in service to Minnesota and his country is admirable and unparalleled,” said Governor Walz. “Gwen and I extend our deepest gratitude to him and his crew members, and our deepest condolences to Mr. Washington’s friends, family, crew members, community, and all others who mourn his passing.”
Leslie R. Washington served this wildland fire season as a member of the K-River 2 crew, a Tribal firefighting crew, on assignment with SES Fire and the US Wildland Fire Service. On August 11, 2026, Mr. Washington died following a medical emergency while responding to the Bear Trap Fire near Ely, Minnesota.
Mr. Washington was from Noorvik, Alaska, and was a member of the Inupiaq people of the Northwest Arctic. Mr. Washington and his crew members traveled throughout rural Alaska to protect lives, property, and natural resources before coming to Minnesota to do the same. Mr. Washington displayed courage and dedication beyond measure, something also shared by all firefighters across the state and nation.
Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Mr. Washington’s dedication and sacrifice. The Governor's proclamation can be found here.
On Thursday, the New York Times reported that the Department of Justice investigated "left-leaning groups" during Operation Metro Surge by conducting expansive surveillance, infiltrating group chats, and obtaining financial records of organizations never accused of crimes. Governor Walz shared the following statement:
“Trump is treating the justice department like a gang of thugs to sic on anyone he disagrees with - labor unions, democratic groups, political opponents. It’s incumbent on all Americans - Republicans and Democrats - to stand against this desecration of our basic liberties.”
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