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As nature’s ‘ecosystem engineers,’ beavers could help fight effects of climate change
Beaver dams reduce flooding, create wetlands that boost biodiversity and can even slow wildfires. But bringing back beavers would require a shift in public attitude — and finding ways for humans and beavers to coexist.
Former Minnesota teacher of the year found guilty of sexually abusing student
Abdul J. Wright, 39, was found guilty Wednesday of sexually abusing a child while she was his student in 2017 at Harvest Best Academy. He will likely face 12 to 14 years of prison for first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
Low Mississippi River water levels could add to soybean exporters’ headaches
More than half of American soybeans depend on the Mississippi River as an export channel. But no significant rainfall is forecast for the lower half of the Mississippi, which could hinder the transport of goods, like soybeans.
Gun buyer for man who killed Burnsville first responders sentenced to 45 months in federal prison
The woman who bought the guns that her romantic partner used to kill three first responders in Burnsville last year was sentenced to 45 months in federal prison. Ashley Dyrdahl pleaded guilty in January to federal charges of purchasing guns for Shannon Gooden, who was ineligible to have firearms because of an assault conviction.