Minnesota’s Groundhog: Meet the Woodchuck (Marmota monax)

groundhog standing on it's legs in the grass

Think groundhogs only predict the weather? Not in Minnesota. Our woodchucks are busy digging tunnels, shaping ecosystems, and living far more interesting lives than any shadow-seeking celebrity.   When most people think of Groundhog Day, they picture Punxsutawney Phil popping out of a stump somewhere far from here. However, Minnesota has its own star —…

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What Are Northern Lights?

Northern lights in the sky

You don’t need a plane ticket to Iceland to see the aurora. In Minnesota, you just need to look up. The Northern Lights are appearing more than ever in Minnesota—and the science behind them is just as stunning as the view.   I’ve personally witnessed the Northern Lights almost four times this past year! Just…

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The Chemistry of Candlelight

Image of white pillar candles glowing while lit, dried leaves can be seen next to them

As the days grow shorter and the nights stretch long, there’s something irresistibly comforting about candlelight. Although candles were created nearly 5000 years ago, they have continued to serve a purpose for us. Whether flickering on a dinner table, lining a cozy living room, or glowing softly in a bedroom, candles seem to pull us…

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