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.

Minnesota farmers say Dayton plan to curb runoff is laced with problems
Gov. Mark Dayton sees the state law requiring 50-foot grassy buffer strips along most Minnesota water bodies as part of his environmental legacy. Farmers call it too costly and unworkable. Minnesota's senior U.S. House member agrees.
The U.S. Forest Service will begin a lengthy environmental review on a proposed mining moratorium on the Superior National Forest in the Rainy River watershed.
Filings: Dakota Access pipeline opponents allegedly threatened officials
Police allege in court filings that opponents of the Dakota Access oil pipeline made threats against officers and public officials in North Dakota last year, prompting additional security for the state's governor.
Friday's action keeps in place pollution reduction targets for the years 2022-2025. That means the fleet of new cars will have to average 51.4 miles per gallon by 2025, up more than 18 mpg from the 33.2 mpg requirement in 2015, the most recent year available.
Climate One series: The Trump administration and climate change
From the Commonwealth Club of California's Climate One series: "Political and Climate Disruption." How do businesses, Democrats, Republicans and environmentalists view the climate change debate with Republican control in Washington and a new political reality?
Why going organic just got easier for farmers
Farmers have to follow organic rules for three years before they can sell their food as certified organic. That transition period can mean much lower profits. But a new certification may change that.
Drug traces found in state waters may be enough to harm fish, agency finds
Trace levels of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals may be harming fish in Minnesota rivers and lakes, according to a study released Thursday by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.