River Review: Top 10 St. Croix 360 stories of 2019

This year’s most popular stories covered everything from major flooding to record sturgeon — and much more.

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Thank you for reading St. Croix 360 this year. It’s been another big year full of stories about the river and its watershed. Readers keep this site going in so many ways and we’re grateful for all your interest and support!

We’re proud to share that this year, St. Croix 360 was read by significantly more people than ever.

If you haven’t contributed already, please click here to support St. Croix 360. It will send an important message that you want to keep reading about the river.

Without further ado, here are the site’s most popular stories from the last year. The threat of record flooding last spring was responsible for three, but it was the river’s wildlife that nabbed the top two slots. The rest cover a broad number of topics from conservation to public safety.

10.) Stillwater completes dike, watches water levels and weather forecast

Favorable weather conditions have decreased the chance of destructive flooding, and officials remain cautiously optimistic while preparations are completed.

9.) Sandbagging starts on lower St. Croix River as water begins to rise

Workers and volunteers are building dikes in expectation of significant spring flooding.

8.) Caution: Boat barrier missing at St. Croix Falls dam

Boaters on the Indianhead Flowage are urged to be careful after buoys washed away during high water.

7.) Exclusive video: Watch the ‘Big Boy’ steam locomotive cross the St. Croix

The huge train engine rumbled across the Hudson Swing Bridge as it tours the country for the first time in more than 50 years.

6.) North Hudson boat landing closed on weekends due to conflict with neighbors

Village officials announced the road to the landing will remain closed until a solution is found for dangerous activities and noise.

5.) Stillwater reveals designs for new Riverwalk pedestrian path

Extension of the walkway south of Lowell Park will prevent erosion and offer opportunities to enjoy river views.

4.) ‘Major’ flooding much more likely in latest forecast

Weather Service says the potential for record-setting floods has increased significantly since last week.

3.) Xcel Energy announces plan to close St. Croix River power plant

Allen S. King Plant near Bayport will be retired as utility company moves toward renewable, carbon-free energy sources.

2.) Viral video shows eagle swimming in the St. Croix with a muskie in its talons

Boaters witness America’s national bird wrestling a big, toothy fish to shore near Afton.

1.) Watch an ice fisherman catch a 120-pound sturgeon on the St. Croix

Darren Troseth (left) and John Kimble hold the record-sized sturgeon. (Photo courtesy Darren Troseth)

Minnesota angler breaks state record for the once-endangered fish, and then releases it back into the river.


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