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.

Canada pledges Great Lakes funding after Trudeau-Biden talks
Some members of the U.S. Congress and advocacy groups had complained that Canada has done too little to help clean up the lakes, which suffer from industrial toxins, invasive species, harmful algae and other problems.
Bayport riverside residents prepare for possible flooding
The National Weather Service said major flooding is likely in several areas of Minnesota this year. In the town of Bayport, just south of Stillwater, residents who live close to the St. Croix River are doing what they can now to prepare for high water.
On Madeline Island, residents aim to preserve their ferry lifeline
A warming climate and the gradual loss of the ice road on Lake Superior has made the Madeline Island Ferry an even more essential lifeline for residents and tourists. Now the town of La Pointe, Wis., is trying to buy the service to ensure it runs well into the future.
30 invasive carp caught in Mississippi near Winona, largest upstream haul
Invasive carp compete with native species and pose a threat to Minnesota’s rivers and lakes. DNR officials said Thursday that while there’s no “silver bullet” remedy, they’re using “proven methods” to minimize the risk of spread.
Ahead of potentially historic flooding, here's what to know (and do) to prepare
The spring flooding season is on its way in Minnesota and could include major water level rises along the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers. Here’s how to prepare — and help — if and when the water rises.
Lake residents want a tougher law to keep trash (and worse) off the ice
A growing coalition of organizations wants to crack down on trash and waste dumped on Minnesota lakes over the winter. They’re seeking tougher laws and more enforcement, and hoping for legislative support at a hearing this week.
Xcel: Radioactive water leaked in November at Monticello nuclear plant
State regulators said Thursday that they do not believe the contaminated water has left the Xcel Energy site but they’re pumping out contaminated groundwater for storage and are also monitoring local wells. It’s not clear why the leak wasn't disclosed to the public until three months after it occurred.
State transportation officials are moving ahead with a plan to remake a stretch of London Road in Duluth — the gateway to the North Shore — despite many residents’ objections to one of three proposed roundabouts.