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.

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.”
Report shows gain in Minnesota's wetland acres
Wetlands play a key role in improving water quality, storing floodwater, preventing erosion and providing habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. The recent gains are tiny compared to Minnesota’s historical wetland losses.
Lawmaker: Raise fertilizer fees to help pay cost of nitrate pollution
DFL Rep. Rick Hansen says farmers should pay higher fees for nitrogen fertilizer, the source of the majority of nitrate contamination in southeast Minnesota. Farm groups oppose the idea.
Dakota women leading two Twin Cities nonprofits aim to be catalysts for change 
The Twin Cities are at the epicenter of a dynamic shift in the world of land stewardship and restoration work. Leading the charge are two nonprofit environmental organizations —Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi and Owámniyomni Okhódayapi — now both led by Indigenous women.  
Deteriorating ice creates dangerous conditions on Minnesota lakes
Ice conditions are deteriorating across the state because of warm temperatures and recent rainfall. Law enforcement officials and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are urging caution when venturing onto frozen lakes.