MNR Watching Leaky Dam

The Ministry of Natural Resources is monitoring closely an earthen dam in the Atikokan area.

The Hardy Dam, constructed as part of the former Steep Rock Mine's water diversion project, is showing signs of leaking.

Spokesperson Michelle Novak says an environmental assessment will be done to consider corrective measures.

Novak says the Ministry's is also reviewing more immediate solutions to prevent a complete collapse.

Highway Open

The Trans Canada Highway near Vermillion Bay is open again after a transport truck caught fire.

OPP closed the highway earlier this morning until the fire could be put out and the tractor trailer unit removed from the road.

No one was hurt.

Man Charges with Shooting Truck

A northeastern Ontario man is going back to hunting school after shooting a hole in his truck.

The man was charged back in November after OPP had come the vehicle parked along side of Highway 71 near Finland with a loaded rifle inside.

An investigation with Ministry of Natural Conservation Officers determine the man had been hunting deer at night and the firearm had accidentally discharged inside the vehicle.

Lower Passport Fees Requested

Thunder Bay MP Bruce Hyer wants Canadians and Americans to pay lower passport fees.

Hyer says reducing the costs of the travel document would be a boost to tourism.

He's introduced a private members bill in the House of Commons.

The bill's not likely to pass because of the Harper government majority.

Wild Food Workshop

Area residents can learn more about the presence of wild foods in the Rainy River district.

Rainy River District Stewardship is hosting a workshop next month in Devlin.

Member Rick Neilson says its aimed at helping people to identify what foods they can eat and how to use them.

Neilson says the March 3 workshop will also include a session on plants used by First Nations for traditional and medicinal means.