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.

Boat owners could face permits for water discharge
Every boat from cabin cruisers to canoes would have to carry a new permit as a result of a court fight over ballast water discharged from big ships.
MPCA Commissioner on pressing environmental issues
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner Brad Moore joins Midday to discuss air and water quality, recycling and much more.
CDC releases Great Lakes pollution report citing health problems
Under pressure from Congress, the government released a controversial draft report that suggests pollution is causing health problems in some parts of the Great Lakes states, including cancer and premature births.
Lake Superior water level up 8 inches over last year
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials said Lake Superior is beginning to rise from its record low levels of last August and September.
In parts of the state, one expert says, the water quality and supply is at risk.
Public meetings set on east metro groundwater contamination
Public meetings begin this week to update east metro residents on new exposure limits for a chemical once manufactured by 3M that has been found in the area's drinking water.
Legislation would force pesticide notification
Should Minnesotans be able to look over what pesticides have been sprayed on golf courses and farm fields? A proposal in the House would give people access.
Senate bill could turn some Minnesota lakes into stars
A new bill in the Minnesota Senate is designed to improve lake water quality by empowering the state's lake associations. Those who meet the criteria could be declared "star lakes."
What lies beneath?  Engineers draw down Mississippi in Minneapolis
Engineers have drained off the top 13 feet of the Mississippi River between the Upper and Lower St. Anthony Falls dams in Minneapolis. Historians are savoring a view of the river that resembles what the first explorers probably found at the site.
MPCA draws up ballast water regulations
Minnesota's Pollution Control Agency is trying to stop ships from transporting non-native organisms like zebra mussels to the state's waters.