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.

The bountiful benefits of bringing back the beavers
Hundreds of millions of beavers used to populate the West but were hunted to near extinction. Turns out, beavers are critical to healthy water ecosystems, so now there are efforts to bring them back.
Toxic algae problem will 'get worse in a big way' as climate continues to warm
Across the U.S., reservoirs that supply drinking water and lakes used for recreation are experiencing toxic algae blooms with growing frequency. The trend represents another impact of global warming and raises looming questions about the effects on human health, researchers say.
Regulators focus on need for new pipeline as decision looms
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission worked through questions of Enbridge Energy and opponents of the Line 3 oil pipeline project on Tuesday, hinting that it might take them longer than expected to discuss the matter.
Oil pipeline's fans, foes gear up for testimony over the fate of Enbridge's Line 3
With billboards, TV ads and mass mailings, the groups facing off over the Line 3 oil pipeline project in Minnesota are setting up for what could be a long, emotional fight, beginning with a key decision later this month at the Public Utilities Commission.
Smart sprinklers slashing lawn water use in Woodbury
Sprinkler systems can waste a lot of water and money. In Woodbury, however, residents are saving both by using smart controllers for irrigation systems. Here's how the city-led effort works.
Husky tells residents refinery not close to reopening while investigation into explosions continues
Almost six weeks after explosions at Husky Energy's refinery, Superior residents were able to ask company officials directly when the facility would reopen, while a few others asked if it needed to be in their midst at all.