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.

The federal government sequestration cut will eliminate hundreds of stream flow gages nationwide, including a few in Minnesota. The gages are used for flood forecasting and water quality monitoring.
America's new love: Water
It wasn't too long ago that America had a love affair with soda. Now, an old flame has the country's heart: Plain old H2O.
Lawmakers today will talk over a plan to hike Minnesota's minimum wage. Work to create a Minnesota health insurance exchange grinds its way through the Legislature with a hearing in the House Ways and Means committee.
Contentious frac sand mining hearings start at Capitol
Opponents of the new mining process packed a legislative hearing to urge Gov. Mark Dayton and state lawmakers to regulate the sand mining industry. But industry officials say such regulations will limit job growth and create unnecessary burdens on them.
Frac sand mining fissures exposed at Legislature
For the past two years, cities and towns in southeastern Minnesota have been grappling with how to regulate frac sand mining. The debate over the issue is also creating some fault lines at the Capitol.
Frac sand mining raises environmental, health concerns in SE Minnesota
Minnesota's abundant supply of high-quality frac sand is causing some turmoil. Local governments in southeastern Minnesota are preparing for a number of new permit applications to build or expand mines and processing plants for the special silica sand. Many area residents are concerned about possible environmental or health impacts. Industry representatives say they are addressing the concerns, but some state officials are encouraging caution.
Frac sand mining controversy moves to state Capitol
State lawmakers will hold hearings beginning this week to address the fast-growing frac sand industry and its effect on Minnesota. Although local lawmakers are grappling with how to zone and regulate the industry, rules differ widely throughout the state.