09/21/2026
This past weekend, the Lanesboro, MN area received nearly 8 inches of rain, causing the North Branch of the Root River to rise into flood stage.
The drone footage provides a view of the river’s power and the extent of the flooding across the valley. Seeing the landscape from above offers a unique perspective on how quickly water can reshape the places we know so well.
One of the things we’re grateful for at Eagle Bluff is our location high atop the bluff. While many communities, roads, and riverfront areas experience significant impacts during flooding events, most of our campus infrastructure remains protected when the river swells.
That said, some of our teaching sites and trails near the river have been affected. Canoeing activities will be paused until river levels return to safe conditions and our staff have an opportunity to thoroughly assess the river corridor.
Floods are a natural part of a river’s story, but they can dramatically reshape the landscape. High water can remove islands, alter channels and flow patterns, create log jams and strainers, move large woody debris, and change the character of the river from one season to the next. Before we return to the water, we’ll be evaluating conditions to ensure a safe experience for our students and guests.
As outdoor educators, these events also serve as powerful reminders that rivers are dynamic systems, constantly changing and adapting. The same forces that can create challenges for recreation and access are also important ecological processes that shape habitats and influence the health of the watershed.
