Environmental News

MPR News is your source for environment news from Minnesota and across the country.

Getting to Green: Minnesota’s energy future

Getting to Green is an MPR News series that shares stories about Minnesota’s clean energy transition, including what needs to be done to get there.

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Climate Cast

Listen to Climate Cast, the MPR News podcast all about our changing climate and its impact in Minnesota and worldwide.

Part fishing, part carnival, the annual spring smelt run always brings hordes of anglers to the shore of Lake Superior, hoping to fill buckets and coolers full of the small, silvery fish. But state officials recommend eating only one meal of smelt a month because of concerns over PFOS pollution. 
Tribes’ spring fish harvest provides food, preserves culture
With the ice finally gone on most Minnesota lakes, the annual tradition of spearing or netting fish is underway. The spring harvest is an exercise of tribal treaty rights, and the result of a long-fought legal battle.
New Bemidji State degree draws on Indigenous practices to teach 21st century sustainability
BSU students can now earn a full degree in Indigenous Sustainability Studies that builds on traditional philosophies and practices while also studying the mainstream sustainability techniques.
EPA recommends Army Corps not reissue PolyMet water permit
While only a recommendation, the move by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency could deal a potentially severe blow to the controversial $1 billion mine proposed near Babbitt and Hoyt Lakes in northeastern Minnesota.