Agriculture

Ethanol makers search for cheaper raw material
There could be a major change underway in how ethanol is made. Several companies want to start producing the alcohol fuel from plant fiber. Most ethanol now is made from corn. How likely is the transition to what's called cellulose ethanol?
This map shows where the major groundwater aquifers are in Minnesota, compared to where the ethanol plants are located.
Ethanol vs. water: Can both win?
In Minnesota, ethanol is a favorite among alternative energy advocates. But some scientists say it is a drain on Minnesota's water resources.
Minnesota researcher helps fight an invasion of mites
Life as a beekeeper has been challenging in recent years. Beekeepers are battling the varroa mite. The creature, about the size of head of a pin, has infested bee colonies all over the world.
Crop report shows timely rain helped
August rains have helped turn around much of the corn and soybean crop in Minnnesota. The U.S. Agriculture Department estimates state farmers should harvest a crop nearly as large as last year's.
No new corn for the palace
For the first time ever, one of South Dakota's biggest tourist attractions won't change its look because there isn't enough corn to go around. The world's only Corn Palace is being hit hard by the drought.