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.

Could cutting back on salt save downtown Minneapolis trees?
Minneapolis has planted hundreds of trees in the past few years in an effort to green up downtown, but many aren't surviving past their first year. City staff have been trying to figure out why, and they think they might have found the culprit: salt.
Foam with ‘forever chemicals’ found in two Twin Cities streams
State officials said that there's no immediate health threat to the public. But they are cautioning people to keep away from the foam and take precautions if they — or their pets — come into contact with it.
Teaching homeowners septic ‘secrets’ to protect water
A program from the University of Minnesota aims to teach homeowners about the myths and misconceptions of septic systems — knowledge that could save them money and help protect the environment.
Twin Metals submits formal plans for mine near the Boundary Waters
The proposed underground copper-nickel mine near Ely in the Superior National Forest now begins a long environmental review and permitting process. Twin Metals opponents have called on Gov. Tim Walz to block the project.