Water

Water shortages and problems around Minnesota — and the country — have many wondering what is the true cost of clean and reliable water. This reporting is supported in part by The Water Main, a project of American Public Media.

A spooky tale in time for Halloween: Weather cuts into pumpkin crop
Heavy rains have damaged much of the crop in the Midwest. Canned pumpkin giant Libby's says there should be enough to fill your pies for Thanksgiving, but after that, things will be tight.
Money, race, politics tangle northern Minnesota land deal
When lawmakers killed White Earth Nation's request to buy land using state Legacy Amendment funds, they said it was about taxes. Critics say it's about keeping tribes from owning land.
Issues remain as buffers move from Capitol to cropland
State officials are still working to provide farmers and property owners clear guidance about where they'll be required to install the grassland zones to filter harmful runoff.
Five solutions to our water crisis
Many of the nation's water-supply systems need expensive improvements. And in the West and elsewhere, utilities are focused on finding enough water to meet demand. Although the problems are complex, experts generally agree on some basic solutions.
The water crisis is already here, struggling inches below our feet
Cheap water is something Americans have come to take for granted, but farm runoff, drought, and aging infrastructure threaten this increasingly precious resource. Just as with crumbling bridges or congested highways, the solutions don't come cheap.
Cities bear rising cost of keeping water safe to drink
Algae blooms in Lake Erie, fed by agriculture runoff and overflowing sewer pipes, have become so toxic that they shut down Toledo's water system for two days last summer and have the city looking at spending millions to avoid a repeat.
Photos: One-of-a-kind Stormwater Park protects Mississippi Watershed
Stormwater Park and Learning Center in Minneapolis uses engineering, beauty and research to help people learn what happens to rainwater running off buildings, streets and parking lots. It opens Saturday.