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.

Enbridge appeals to vacate an order that would shut down its pipeline
The Tribe fears the aging pipeline could rupture. Enbridge’s attorney told a three-judge federal appellate panel Thursday that Conley lacked authority to issue such an order. Bad River’s attorney is calling for an immediate shutdown to protect the environment.
On the cusp of a contentious election year, Ely finds new ways to talk about divisive issues
The northern Minnesota town has long been the epicenter of the state’s conflict around mining and the environment. Now, though, there’s a renewed effort in Ely to restart a civil discussion around long-standing divisions.
Art Shanty Projects closes due to warm weather
The Art Shanty Projects on Lake Harriet in Minneapolis closed six days after opening due to unseasonably warm weather, leaving the organization facing a financial shortfall.
How rethinking design could reduce the need for road salt
Eden Prairie is a pilot city testing low-salt design. The concept is to plan streets and buildings so ice and melted snow don't accumulate in places where people walk and drive, reducing the need for deicing salt that pollutes lakes, rivers and streams.
Paddle planning: BWCA permit reservations open Wednesday
Reservations for trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness open Wednesday at 9 a.m. Permits usually get snapped up fast. Forest officials offer several tips to make your reservation.
Latest EPA assessment shows almost no improvement in river and stream nitrogen pollution
The EPA’s newest assessment of water quality and nutrient pollution in U.S. rivers and streams shows almost no progress on cutting the nitrogen pollution that comes primarily from farm chemical runoff.
Boil water advisory issued for western Minnesota city
According to an alert from Kandiyohi County, there was a loss of pressure in the water system in Raymond — and that might have allowed bacterial contamination to happen.
Minnesota finds increased health risk from ‘forever chemicals’
The Minnesota Department of Health has lowered the levels at which perfluorinated chemicals in drinking water pose a health risk. Officials said new research shows there is increased health risks from what are known as “forever chemicals.”