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.

The Conversation: To protect people in the Great Lakes region from climate extremes, weatherize their homes
A national evaluation of the Weatherization Assistance Program indicates that weatherized homes may be better equipped to provide safe, healthy environments in times of need.
Myth-busting: You won’t get COVID-19 from your tap water
As concern grows over the spread of COVID-19, many people across Minnesota and the U.S. have been stocking up on items like food, cleaning supplies and bottled water. But why water? We asked some experts about water and COVID-19, and here’s what we learned.
In long-running dispute over water and land in Pineland Sands, a farmer is caught in the middle
Cattle rancher Tim Nolte's plan to expand his farm has gotten caught up in a yearslong debate over the effects of changing land use on the water of the Pineland Sands region, which covers four counties in north-central Minnesota.
In northern Minn., neighbors navigate the bitter fight over copper-nickel mining
The conflict over copper-nickel mining in northern Minnesota typically divides people into two camps: Those who think it can be done while also protecting the nearby wilderness — and those who think it can't. But for many who live near the proposed mines, the issue isn't always so black and white.
Minnesota to pitch anglers on going lead-free for loons
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is planning to launch a new program to encourage anglers to voluntarily switch to lead-free fishing tackle as a way to help save the common loon. Lead poisoning is a leading cause of death for Minnesota loons.
High water wreaks havoc on Great Lakes, swamping communities
The five inland seas are bursting at the seams during the region's wettest period in more than a century, which scientists say is likely connected to the warming climate. And no relief is in sight. Meanwhile, the toll is extensive: accelerated erosion; homes and businesses flooded; roads and sidewalks crumbled; beaches washed away; parks rendered unusable.
Bill to ban copper-nickel mining draws sharp contrast between Boundary Waters, Iron Range
A bill that would ban copper-nickel mining on about 234,000 acres of the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota had its first Congressional hearing Wednesday. The debate highlighted what two unique places, so close together — the Iron Range and the Boundary Waters — mean to different people.
In second Line 3 approval, state regulators take up safety, spills — and climate change
Minnesota utility regulators have once again given their blessing to Line 3, the oil pipeline replacement project Enbridge Energy has proposed for northern Minnesota — but not before having a sometimes heated discussion about the project's impact on climate change.