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.

Microplastics have invaded the deep ocean -- and the food chain
Giant gyres of plastic in the ocean grab headlines, but it's the tiny bits of plastic that scare scientists. And they've made their way everywhere, a new study finds -- including in our seafood.
Wolves, deer and a new state bee: How the environment fared at the Legislature
There was a lot of give-and-take at the last minute between the DFL-controlled House and Republican-controlled Senate. Some provisions -- like establishing grants to get kids outdoors -- made it through, while others -- like lifting the state's ban on new nuclear power plants -- were abandoned.
Flame retardant ban becomes state law
It bans the manufacture and sale of mattresses, children's products, upholstered furniture and residential textiles, such as window coverings, that contain certain flame retardants.
Farmers testing new fertilizer alternative: Bacteria
Farmers across the country are putting a genetically modified bacteria in the ground this spring to help corn plants use naturally occurring nitrogen. The goal is to eventually replace synthetic nitrogen fertilizer.
Lawmakers crafting budgets turn to dedicated funds
Some environmental groups say lawmakers are turning with greater frequency to the dedicated Legacy and lottery funds to cover expenses that had, in earlier years, been paid for through more traditional means.
A primer on life jackets: Especially in cold water, they can save your life
Just a few weeks ago, many of Minnesota's lakes and rivers were covered with ice. And wearing a life jacket can make a critical difference in the chances of survival for boaters and anglers who fall overboard into cold water, officials say.
1 million animal and plant species are at risk of extinction, U.N. report says
"Protecting biodiversity amounts to protecting humanity," says UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, who warns that species are being lost at an alarming rate.