Buffalo County, Wisconsin

10/14/2026

NELSON RAILROAD CROSSING CLOSURE UPDATE

Buffalo County would like to remind residents and travelers that the BNSF Railroad crossing on STH 25 in the Village of Nelson will be closed from 6:00 a.m. on October 26 through 4:00 p.m. on October 30.

UPDATE: We have received clarification that BNSF Railway will not permit vehicle traffic, pedestrian traffic, or foot traffic across the railroad tracks during the closure period due to safety considerations associated with the project.

We recognize that this closure will create challenges for many people, and we share those concerns. At this point, our focus is on helping residents, businesses, and emergency services prepare and adapt during the closure period. While the disruption is unfortunate, railroad crossings require maintenance and replacement just like any other piece of transportation infrastructure. Working together and planning ahead will do far more to reduce the impact than frustration or speculation. We appreciate everyone's patience as this important work moves forward.

Motorists traveling between Wisconsin and Minnesota will need to use an alternate Mississippi River crossing, with the nearest options being:

✅ Winona, MN
✅ Red Wing, MN

BNSF Railway Police are also expected to be present during the closure period to assist with safety and security around the work zone and railroad property.

We would also like to clarify that this is not a Buffalo County project. The work is being conducted by BNSF Railway and its contractors. Buffalo County's role is simply to help share information and increase public awareness so residents, businesses, and travelers can plan ahead and minimize disruptions during the closure.

Buffalo County Emergency Management, the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office, and our public safety partners continue to coordinate with local, state, and railroad officials to help ensure continuity of emergency services and public safety throughout the closure period.

We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding while this important work is completed. If your travel plans normally involve the Nelson crossing, please allow extra travel time and plan your route accordingly.

Thank you for helping spread the word.

10/13/2026

BNSF Railroad Crossing on STH 25 in Nelson to Close October 26-30

The BNSF Railroad crossing on State Highway 25 (STH 25) in the Village of Nelson will be closed to all traffic beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026, and is expected to remain closed until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026.

Buffalo County was notified of the closure on a shortened timeline and is working diligently communicate impacts and minimize disruptions to residents, businesses, and emergency services.
The closure is being conducted at the request of BNSF Railway to allow crews to complete work at the crossing.

Under the current plan, emergency service vehicles will continue to have access through the crossing during the closure. However, the crossing will be closed to the general public, and motorists traveling between Wisconsin and Minnesota will need to use an alternate Mississippi River crossing.

The two nearest alternate river crossings are:
• Winona, Minnesota
• Red Wing, Minnesota

Motorists should plan ahead, expect significantly longer travel times, and adjust routes accordingly.

The Buffalo County Sheriff's Office and Buffalo County Emergency Management are working closely with local, state, and regional partners to help minimize disruptions to emergency services throughout the closure period. Agencies have been coordinating plans to ensure continued emergency response capability for residents and visitors.

"We recognize this closure will create an inconvenience for many travelers and businesses in the area. We appreciate the public's patience and understanding while this important work is completed."

Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor local announcements and plan travel accordingly during the closure period. We will be providing updates related to this closure as we are notified.

10/06/2026

Here is a GREAT opportunity to come and learn more or express your ideas on tourism, economic development and housing needs.

All sessions will be held in the County Board Room (3rd floor), Buffalo County Court House, 407 S. 2nd Steet in Alma
Attend one, two, or all the sessions as your interest and time allows. Come learn about what the Buffalo County Economic Development Committee is focusing its efforts on. You can also share your ideas and feedback.

RSVPs not required, but appreciated to Dave Carlson, [email protected].

Winona Area Chamber of CommerceFountain City Business and Community Group

10/04/2026

Our condolences to the WI State Patrol, Trooper Ritger’s family and the Law Enforcement community!

10/01/2026

The missing person has been located, thanks to everyone for the information provided and to those involved in the search.

MISSING PERSON / ATTEMPT TO LOCATE

Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office — Seeking Public Assistance

We are requesting the public's help in locating the owner of a boat found unattended earlier today.

The vessel was found tied off along the shoreline near Merrick State Park. Preliminary evidence indicates the boat ran out of gas, and we are currently trying to account for the owner's whereabouts and well-being.

How You Can Help:

Did you pick up or give a ride to a stranded boater near Merrick State Park?

Have you seen anyone walking in the area of the park or along nearby roads or shoreline?

If you have any information—no matter how small—please contact the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office immediately:

📞 Phone: 608-685-4433 (Select Option 2)

Please share this post to help spread the word throughout the community.

09/30/2026

📢 We're Hiring! Buffalo County is seeking an Economic Support Specialist to help individuals and families access important programs and resources. If you're passionate about helping others and providing excellent customer service, we'd love to hear from you.
Learn more and apply today at http://www.buffalocountywi.gov/community/careers

09/28/2026

ROAD IS OPEN NOW!!!

A portion of CTH O will be temporarily closed today for culvert installation on the Cochrane side of the hill. The closed portion will be from the Wender Quarry to Wicka Rd. We will advise when it is open again.

09/25/2026

Here is our Land Management Director during an interview with WHTL.