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.

February 19, 2013 6:30 AM

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.

by Tom Scheck

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

February 18, 2013 3:04 PM

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.

by Stephanie Hemphill

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

February 18, 2013 4:00 AM

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.

by Elizabeth Baier

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

February 15, 2013 11:02 AM

Approach work makes way for new St. Croix bridge

MnDOT selects contractor for St. Croix River Crossing Hwy 36 reconstruction project.

by Jessica Mador

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

February 5, 2013 4:45 AM

Theater as small town therapy

Theater producer and director Ashley Hanson puts on plays in small towns like Granite Falls with the goal of helping people solve big issues.

by Jennifer Vogel

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

February 5, 2013 4:00 AM

Moorhead fights against pollution regulations

Moorhead is fighting a new state pollution rule designed to protect water quality in Canada.

by Dan Gunderson

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

December 18, 2012 12:29 PM

Tuning out the news of a massacre may be the best coping mechanism

Today on the MPR News Update, Minnesota mental health professionals and educators address mass shootings. We hear from the son of a victim of a mass shooting in Minneapolis. Also, we have the latest on the Cold Spring police officer killing, a plan to move sand around in Wabasha, and on how the group that pressed for construction of a new St. Croix River bridge is keeping the pressure on.

by Phil Picardi and Hart Van Denburg

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

December 17, 2012 4:47 PM

Minn. court affirms wild rice protection

The Minnesota Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling Monday dismissing a challenge to the state's water quality standard protecting wild rice.

by Dan Kraker

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

December 11, 2012 8:23 PM

Stadium designers asked to consider environmental concerns

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is asking designers of the new Vikings stadium to think about accommodating an unusual category of birds passing through downtown Minneapolis.

by Tim Nelson