Minnesota News

MPR News is your go-to source for Minnesota news and stories.

From local stories from your Minnesota neighbors to breaking news updates across the state, we have you covered.

Ask a 'sotan: Why are the rivers different colors?
Have you ever driven past or hiked along a Minnesota river and wondered what gives it that particular color? One MPR News listener did. She asked, "Why is the Mississippi River so muddy when compared to other rivers like the St. Croix? Has it always been this way?"
Freed from icy grip, Duluth's Aerial Lift Bridge back on the upswing
Blizzard conditions that rocked Duluth over the weekend had left the city’s iconic bridge so heavily iced it was stuck in the down position. Officials on Thursday said the deicing efforts paid off and the bridge was operational again.
No elves at this Twin Cities Christmas workshop, but lots of concrete
A cement mason and plasterer union training program in New Brighton makes it a holiday tradition to build a heavy display using the tool of their trades. It’s lovely. Just don’t try to lift the snowman.
Brewing beer, breaking boundaries: People of color tap into MN’s craft business
Craft breweries and distilleries abound in Minnesota, but few are owned by people of color. The co-owner of a new Minneapolis taproom hopes his experience helps open the door wider to diversity — and great beer.
Bird poop problems? Rochester’s Crow Patrol is on it
The city’s epic struggle with downtown crows and their poop intensifies in the winter. Chasing them away falls to a dedicated band of city workers armed with lasers, starter pistols and crow distress calls. MPR News spent a night with the crew.
Walmart to stop selling Water Gremlin products
The fishing-sinker manufacturer based in White Bear Township is working to reduce lead dust leaving the plant under a court-approved plan. Children living with employees were found to have elevated blood lead levels.
Duluth's Aerial Lift Bridge stuck following weekend blizzard
The port's ship canal was pounded by waves and heavy ice formed on the bridge, halting lift operations that let ships pass. Duluth officials haven't offered a timeline for when it will return to operation.
Bob and Corrine Johnson got married as teens in southern Minnesota’s farm country and lived together for 68 years. They were to be laid to rest Tuesday — after dying 33 hours apart.
The nonprofit organization is acquiring the Augustana Health Care Center in the Elliot Park neighborhood. Catholic Charities will renovate the building to accommodate about 200 people who are chronically homeless.
After an apartment fire kills 5, a call for sprinklers
Adding sprinklers in old buildings can be expensive. But proponents say it’s worth it.