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.

June 11, 2015 2:58 PM

Finding clues to water quality in the bottom of a lake

Scientist Dan Engstrom says the sediment on lake bottoms can show how — or even if — certain farming practices affect water quality.

by Dan Olson

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May 21, 2015 2:45 PM

Counties stake middle ground in clean water, runoff fight

As farmers and Gov. Mark Dayton argue over enforcing buffer strips along public streams and lakes, Otter Tail County officials are finding success with a local, low-key approach.

by Dan Gunderson

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May 19, 2015 1:44 AM

The Daily Digest: Your 2015 session crib sheet

Legislators met their midnight deadline to pass budget bills, and the 2015 session adjourned. Here's what you need to know about some of the bills they passed.

by Catharine Richert

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May 18, 2015 6:04 PM

Environmentalists want another veto from Dayton

Environmental groups complain that, even though the bill includes language on buffers to protect state waterways, it would delay water quality rules, hurt bees and go easy on polluters.

by Elizabeth Dunbar

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May 18, 2015 4:35 PM

Session limps to a close with legislators dismayed

The divided Minnesota Legislature on Monday finished a $41.5 billion budget. But Gov. Mark Dayton is expected to veto an education bill, requiring legislators to return for a special session.

by Tom Scheck

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May 15, 2015 4:14 PM

Environment groups brace for last-minute legislative deals

As the 2015 legislative session draws to a close, environmentalists are concerned that a budget deal could harm efforts to protect Minnesota's lakes and rivers and develop clean energy.

by Elizabeth Dunbar

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May 14, 2015 6:06 PM

Iron Range legislators, Dayton reach compromise over sulfate standards for wild rice

The compromise will temporarily prevent state regulators from forcing companies to invest in new treatment technologies to protect wild rice.

by Elizabeth Dunbar

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May 14, 2015 2:23 PM

Is status quo the right approach for wild rice protection?

State lawmakers have reached a compromise with Gov. Mark Dayton's administration on legislation over wild rice protection.

by MPR News Staff

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May 8, 2015 6:29 PM

Iowa water official: Farm nitrates should be regulated

Des Moines Water Works CEO Bill Stowe said nitrates are a growing problem. Faced with paying for technology that can remove nitrates, Des Moines is suing over agricultural drainage.

by Elizabeth Dunbar