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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.

Contentious frac sand mining hearings start at Capitol

Contentious frac sand mining hearings start at Capitol

Opponents of the new mining process packed a legislative hearing to urge Gov. Mark Dayton and state lawmakers to regulate the sand mining industry. But industry officials say such regulations will limit job growth and create unnecessary burdens on them.
by Tom Scheck

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Frac sand mining fissures exposed at Legislature

Frac sand mining fissures exposed at Legislature

For the past two years, cities and towns in southeastern Minnesota have been grappling with how to regulate frac sand mining. The debate over the issue is also creating some fault lines at the Capitol.
by Tom Scheck

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Frac sand mining raises environmental, health concerns in SE Minnesota

Frac sand mining raises environmental, health concerns in SE Minnesota

Minnesota's abundant supply of high-quality frac sand is causing some turmoil. Local governments in southeastern Minnesota are preparing for a number of new permit applications to build or expand mines and processing plants for the special silica sand. Many area residents are concerned about possible environmental or health impacts. Industry representatives say they are addressing the concerns, but some state officials are encouraging caution.
by Stephanie Hemphill

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Frac sand mining controversy moves to state Capitol

Frac sand mining controversy moves to state Capitol

State lawmakers will hold hearings beginning this week to address the fast-growing frac sand industry and its effect on Minnesota. Although local lawmakers are grappling with how to zone and regulate the industry, rules differ widely throughout the state.
by Elizabeth Baier

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Theater as small town therapy

Theater as small town therapy

Theater producer and director Ashley Hanson puts on plays in small towns like Granite Falls with the goal of helping people solve big issues.
by Jennifer Vogel

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Tuning out the news of a massacre may be the best coping mechanism

Tuning out the news of a massacre may be the best coping mechanism

Today on the MPR News Update, Minnesota mental health professionals and educators address mass shootings. We hear from the son of a victim of a mass shooting in Minneapolis. Also, we have the latest on the Cold Spring police officer killing, a plan to move sand around in Wabasha, and on how the group that pressed for construction of a new St. Croix River bridge is keeping the pressure on.
by Phil Picardi and Hart Van Denburg

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