Environmental News

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

Getting to Green: Minnesota’s energy future

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Red Lake Nation and Minnesota DNR disagree on how to combat zebra mussels
Until 2018, Upper Lake and Lower Red Lake remained the only large walleye lake in the state still free from zebra mussels. That year the DNR announced it had found zebra mussel veliger — the tiny larvae — in Upper Red Lake. The small mollusks are known to filter out algae from lake water, a vital walleye food source. 
Minnesota DNR delays decision on key proposed copper-nickel mine permit
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has delayed a decision until late next year on a key permit for the proposed NewRange Copper Nickel project in northeastern Minnesota, the mine formerly known as PolyMet. The company called the agency’s decision “unfortunate.”
Joe Biden begins final White House holiday season with turkey pardons for 'Peach' and 'Blossom'
President Joe Biden has kicked off his final holiday season at the White House, issuing the traditional reprieve to two turkeys who will bypass the Thanksgiving table to live out their days in Minnesota.
Minneapolis council member who beat rare cancer fights to protect others from harmful pollutants
LaTrisha Vetaw survived a rare form of cancer that doctors told her was likely caused by her exposure to toxins in the air and land where she grew up in Chicago. That was on her mind when the Minneapolis City Council voted recently in favor of closing a solid waste incinerator.
National monument proposed for North Dakota Badlands, with tribes’ support
 A coalition of conservation groups and Native American tribal citizens have asked President Joe Biden to designate thousands of acres of rugged, scenic Badlands as North Dakota’s first national monument. At least three tribal nations endorse the proposal to preserve the area’s Indigenous and cultural heritage.
Record dryness in US Northeast should change water behavior, experts say
The U.S. Northeast is experiencing an unusually severe and widespread drought during months that are typically the wettest. Experts say major changes need to happen to avoid future critical shortages of water and as the climate warms droughts will continue to intensify, which should prompt communities to use this drought as motivation to implement long-term solutions.