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.

In northern Minn., neighbors navigate the bitter fight over copper-nickel mining
The conflict over copper-nickel mining in northern Minnesota typically divides people into two camps: Those who think it can be done while also protecting the nearby wilderness — and those who think it can't. But for many who live near the proposed mines, the issue isn't always so black and white.
Minnesota to pitch anglers on going lead-free for loons
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is planning to launch a new program to encourage anglers to voluntarily switch to lead-free fishing tackle as a way to help save the common loon. Lead poisoning is a leading cause of death for Minnesota loons.
High water wreaks havoc on Great Lakes, swamping communities
The five inland seas are bursting at the seams during the region's wettest period in more than a century, which scientists say is likely connected to the warming climate. And no relief is in sight. Meanwhile, the toll is extensive: accelerated erosion; homes and businesses flooded; roads and sidewalks crumbled; beaches washed away; parks rendered unusable.
Bill to ban copper-nickel mining draws sharp contrast between Boundary Waters, Iron Range
A bill that would ban copper-nickel mining on about 234,000 acres of the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota had its first Congressional hearing Wednesday. The debate highlighted what two unique places, so close together — the Iron Range and the Boundary Waters — mean to different people.
In second Line 3 approval, state regulators take up safety, spills — and climate change
Minnesota utility regulators have once again given their blessing to Line 3, the oil pipeline replacement project Enbridge Energy has proposed for northern Minnesota — but not before having a sometimes heated discussion about the project's impact on climate change.
Minnesota utility regulators give key approvals to Line 3 pipeline project
Months after a court decision threw its future into question, the Line 3 pipeline replacement project is moving closer to regaining the permits it needs to begin construction.
For state utility regulators, it’s Line 3 all over again
More than a year and a half after regulators at the state Public Utilities Commission first approved the oil pipeline replacement project, they’re being asked to consider it again. A state court overturned the project's environmental review last summer, and the PUC now has to decide whether to approve a revised assessment.
Minnesota considers raising water permit fees
Cities, industries and some livestock farmers could pay more for water quality permit fees under a proposal by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. But some cities and farmers are objecting, saying the money should come from the state's general fund instead.
As regulations roll back, could clean water protection business dry up?
The Trump administration is stripping clean water protections put in place by President Obama, and some in the industry worry that the regulatory changes will threaten their business.
Regulators revisit environmental review for Line 3 pipeline
Most of Friday's testimony strayed well beyond the narrow official scope of the proceedings into the broader questions of whether the project should even be built.