Environmental News

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

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Swimmers discover zebra mussels have invaded more Minnesota lakes
About 3 percent of Minnesota lakes are infested with zebra mussels, although that number has been growing. They can compete with native species for food and habitat, change the ecology of the lake, cut swimmers’ feet and cause damage to water intake pipes.
A judge has granted Line 3 protesters' request for a temporary restraining order against officials in northern Minnesota's Hubbard County, amid an ongoing dispute over access to property used as a protest camp.
Wildfires blasting across the West draw other states to lend support
Out-of-state crews headed to Montana on Saturday to battle a blaze that injured five firefighters as the West struggles with a series of massive wildfires. In Butte County, California, the Dixie Fire grew to become the state’s largest wildfire so far this year.
Forest Service lifts one BWCA closure order; other parts of wilderness remain closed
Officials are lifting the Boundary Waters closure order related to the Delta Lake fire east of Ely. A much larger closure order remains in effect north of Ely because of concerns about wildfires burning in Ontario.
New effort aims to hold back water to slow ‘flashy’ Minn. rivers
Unlike this year, Minnesota often has had to contend with high water. Scientists attribute flash flows to more intense rain events and the loss of wetlands that act as natural sponges. New state funding aims to help landowners store more water on their land.
Drought in Minnesota: How to conserve water at home
Cities across the state enacted watering restrictions that limit lawn and garden water use. Here are some additional ways you can save water on your own.
72% of Minnesota is now in severe drought
The hot, mostly dry conditions forecast through the end of July provide no relief to the dire situation. Water levels are low in many lakes and rivers throughout Minnesota, including at Minnehaha Falls in Minneapolis.
Low water makes it harder to play on Minnesota lakes
Going to the lake is a time-honored summer tradition in Minnesota. But this summer, low water on some Minnesota lakes makes launching watercraft more of a challenge than usual.
The Western wildfires are affecting people 3,000 miles away
Eastern states have been clouded in a smoky haze for days, and with the smoke comes poor air quality. People far away from the fires aren't ready for the breathing problems the smoke brings.