Total precipitation (mostly snowfall with some freezing rain) for our station this past week was 0.26 inches with 0.34 inches for the month of January. Total snowpack depth this morning is 7.0 inches with a snow water equivalent (melted value) of 1.95 inches. Temperatures have ranged from a high of 41°F on Wednesday to a low of 12°F this Saturday. The week began with unseasonably mild temperatures for early January while ending with a dip toward the weekend along with minimal significant snowfall. As is typical for January in Minnesota, agricultural fields remain dormant. Local farmers are currently in the planning and procurement phase for the 2026 growing season. Vegetation is in a state of winter dormancy. The landscape is dominated by deciduous trees such as Bur Oaks and White Oaks, many of which are holding onto dried leaves through winter. Conifers, including White Pines, Red Cedars and Spruce, provide the primary green cover. There have been no reports of early budding due to the mild start to the year, as soil temperatures remain frozen. Wildlife activity remains centered on winter survival strategies with reports of active tracks of white-tailed deer, coyotes, and red foxes in the area. Bird activity is high at feeders, with common sightings of Black-capped Chickadees, Nuthatches, and Downy Woodpeckers. Bald eagles continue to be spotted near open water stretches of the nearby Rum River. Outdoor recreation continues despite the lack of deep snow cover with hiking and snowshoeing popular in the area along with snowmobiling. The fire danger level remains low due to frozen ground and winter moisture. January 2026 has been significantly milder and drier than January 2025, which was characterized by temperatures closer to the historical normal and more consistent snow cover. We are ending the week with highs in the mid 20s, cloudy to partly cloudy skies, good air quality, and a moderate breeze from the southwest. Light snow flurries are possible this afternoon but no accumulation is expected.