2/18/2026

N. WISCONSIN - A Wisconsin administrative law judge has upheld state permits for Enbridge Energy’s 41.1-mile Line 5 relocation in Ashland and Iron Counties. The ruling rejects challenges by the Bad River Band and environmental groups to the DNR’s wetland, waterway, and water quality approvals. The project reroutes about 20 miles of pipeline from the Bad River Reservation, as required by a federal court order to cease that segment’s operation by mid-2026. Construction could begin this year pending the final U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit. The broader legal and federal permitting process remains ongoing.

2/18/2026

MARENISCO - The Marenisco Township board confirming that an ICE detention facility would not be constructed on state property nearby in Gogebic County at their meeting Monday night.  This after word circulated that the Marenisco township board would be discussing House Resolution 151. Introduced last August by Rep. Greg Markkanen (R-110th State House District) before ICE’s increased presence in Minneapolis.  The proposed resolution would transform the former Ojibway Correctional Facility into an ICE facility. At the time of its submission, the resolution said more space was needed for increasing ICE arrests. It said a new federal detention and deportation facility would further the Trump Administration’s policy goals. 

2/18/2026

VILAS COUNTY - The Eagle River Area Fire Department responded to a severe snowmobile crash on Trail 7 near Muskellunge Creek in the town of Cloverland on Tuesday night. Crews used a UTV to reach and treat the lone operator. Due to serious injuries, a medevac helicopter was requested, requiring a temporary 15-minute closure of Highway 70 at Wilderness Trail for a landing zone. The patient was transported to Wausau. The Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and Aspirus agencies assisted. The department urged responsible snowmobiling on marked trails and adjusting speed to conditions.