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.

Camp Ripley testing finds 'forever chemicals' in nearby wells
Of the 30 wells tested, all had some level of PFAS chemicals, but only one had PFAS above the federal recommended limit for drinking water of 70 parts per trillion.
Lead found in water at Lino Lakes prison; DOC says testing indicates no risks at Stillwater
Minnesota prison officials say preliminary results from a new round of testing show the water at the Stillwater correctional facility is safe to drink — but testing at a different state prison, in Lino Lakes, found lead in some of the water there.
As Hurricane Lee churns off the eastern U.S., another danger lurks: rip currents
Over the last ten years, rip currents have killed more people in the United States than tornadoes or hurricanes. This year has already been particularly bad with 76 deaths reported through August.
Dry states taking Mississippi River water isn’t a new idea. But some mayors want to kill it
Community leaders along the Mississippi River worried that dry southwestern states will someday try to take the river’s water may soon take their first step toward blocking such a diversion.
Study: Wildfire led to poorer water quality in northern Minnesota lakes
The study was the largest examination in North American history of how lakes responded to a single wildfire. The researchers found lakes in burned areas had higher levels of nutrients, sediment and dissolved carbon, likely the results of increased runoff.
What’s in our water?
Chemicals and microbes are entering our water systems. MPR News host Angela Davis talks about how to make sure our drinking water is safe and the water in our lakes and waterways won’t make us sick.