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.

New fines and awareness help reduce litter on Minnesota lakes, but advocates want more action
Lake advocates say a recent state law is helping curb the problem of trash left on Minnesota’s frozen lakes. But they're hoping for more action, including passage of a bill requiring state agencies establish a statewide “Keep It Clean” program and provide funding for local cleanup efforts.
Is it too soon for seasonal allergies? We asked an expert
Dr. Niladri Aichbhaumik, from St. Paul Allergy and Asthma, told MPR News host Cathy Wurzer mold might be the culprit behind some people’s suspicious sniffles.
Drone surveys help scientists understand impact of Rapidan Dam ‘avulsive failure’
Documenting and researching this type of dam failure is a way for researchers to help get data out to public officials and respond in case something like this were to happen again in another place.
Amazon data center planned for Minnesota sparks environmental debate
Minnesota’s rules on power consumption are being put to the test after a clash with the tech giant Amazon. The company has plans to build a data center in Becker, Minnesota. State utility regulators pumped the breaks.
Minnesota’s 2025 moose population stable, but they’re not out of the woods yet
The DNR estimates there are 4,040 moose in northeastern Minnesota, up from 3,470 in 2024. Their numbers have remained stable for more than a decade after crashing from 2009 to 2013, but climate change, predators and parasites still put them at risk, officials say.
A stray inspired a Minnesota family to build a heated ‘cat condo’ — and livestream it
At any given time, dozens of people watch the 24/7 livestream showing the northern Minnesota cats in their heated home as they sleep, eat and play alongside the birds and other wildlife that move on and off the screen.
Federal freeze on energy and climate funding causing concern, confusion in Minnesota
Some of the money has been released since federal judges ordered the funding to be unfrozen. But weatherization programs and rebates for home efficiency upgrades are still on hold. State and local officials say a lack of communication has led to confusion and uncertainty.
Dry and getting drier: What a lack of snowpack means for spring drought trends
Minnesota’s snowpack is far below average, increasing the risk of drought this spring. Experts warn that dry conditions could impact agriculture, fire danger, and waterfowl migration.