U of M defends delay of 'Troubled Waters' film

The University of Minnesota is defending its decision to delay the premiere of a film about pollution in the Mississippi River, and rejecting a call for a top official to resign over the issue.

The Land Stewardship Project, a non-profit group that advised the filmmakers, has called for the Vice President for University Relations, Karen Himle, to step down.

Himle told Twin Cities Public Television not to air the film, "Troubled Waters: A Mississippi River Story." Himle said she made the decision in consultation with Al Levine, Dean of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.

Levine said he did not ask for the premiere to be postponed. Levine said he and some other faculty members do think the film is unbalanced.

University President Robert Bruininks said he has every confidence in Karen Himle and her integrity.

"She continues to be an outstanding part of my leadership team and helping advance the important work of the University of Minnesota," Bruininks said.

The U of M is setting up a faculty committee to review the film.