Minnesota's famed winter isn't what it used to be

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Bundled up against the icy cold and drifting snow, Don Olson has tended the trail of a popular cross-country ski race in Minnesota for years.

Fixing problem spots on the Vasaloppet's route often meant braving the freezing temperatures and frigid winds that have always defined this state. But recently, things have changed: Instead of plodding through the snow, Olson and other volunteers had to start making it.

"We just simply don't get consistent snow anymore," Olson said. "In order to survive, we felt like we needed to do this."

Winter just isn't the same in Minnesota these days. And as the latest season ends, residents say their lifestyles are changing with it.

Minnesota is among the fastest warming states, and Minnesota's winters are warming faster than its other seasons. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show that since 1970, Minnesota's winters have warmed at an average rate of 1.1 degrees per decade — that's more than five times faster than the rate of winter warming in previous years.

"We've lost some of our winter weather mojo," said longtime meteorologist Paul Douglas. "Maybe one in four winters now, today, are old-fashioned pioneer winters, where we really get socked with cold and snow. The other 70, 75 percent of the winters are trending milder."

Longtime residents who enjoy winter sports and activities have done their best to adjust, but it's not always easy.

During mild spells, some sled dog races have been shortened or canceled. Snowmobilers say they've traveled greater distances to find good snow. Outdoor skating rinks and ponds have sometimes been too soft or slushy to use. And businesses that cater to ice anglers or other winter enthusiasts can see a slowdown.

Even Minnesota's beloved moose have felt...