5/19/2026

GOGEBIC COUNTY - The Ottawa National Forest started refurbishing infrastructure along the Black River corridor in Ironwood yesterday. Visitors to the Black River Harbor Recreation Area north of Bessemer should expect temporary closures while crews repair and replace viewing platforms, stairways, and trail structures. Officials say the upgrades will improve safety, accessibility, and protection of natural resources. Work at Sandstone Falls starts first, with later closures planned at Potawatomi Falls, Gorge Falls, and Rainbow Falls this summer. The project is part of the United States Forest Service's effort to modernize recreation facilities and reduce maintenance backlogs. For more information, go to fs.usda.gov.