Report: Parts of state running short on water

A new study from the University of Minnesota says some parts of the state are in danger of running out of water.

The report says many of the state's water rules are inadequate, others are ignored, and that the state needs a more comprehensive approach to water.

The study was commissioned by the Minnesota Legislature in order to ensure that Legacy funds are invested effectively.

The study's chief author, Deb Swackhamer, said she's hoping that partisanship at the Capitol won't interfere with the plan's implementation.

"Water is nonpartisan, I hope the Legislature will look at this and implement it over a very long time period, it's meant to be a long-term strategic plan, not something that happens in a biennium but something that will happen over 10 to 25 years," she said.

Swackhamer presents a draft of the report Wednesday at a forum organized by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.