Minnesota gets a bad report card for nitrate reduction (part two)
How do we get a better grade for nitrate pollution reduction? We have to change the mix of what we grow. In this follow-up, we explain why it isn't feasible to rely on incentive payments to farmers alone to move the needle on our water quality problems. And we offer an exciting solution that could improve water quality by AND sustain farmers' livelihoods. >>
FMR's 2021 legislative priorities
With elections in the books and a revised state budget forecast, it’s time for us to look ahead to the 2021 legislative session in Minnesota. Here’s what's in store for the river and our environment, and how you can get involved as a River Guardian. >>
What the 2020 election results mean for the Mississippi River
How will our recent elections impact the Mississippi River? Here's our preliminary take. >>
Minnesota approves historic bonding bill
On October 15, the Minnesota Legislature achieved a breakthrough for the state’s economy and public health with the passage of a $1.8 billion bonding bill that includes more than $302 million for water infrastructure supported by FMR as part of the Fix the Pipes MN alliance. Sadly, it also includes a project we strongly oppose: the Upper Harbor Terminal concert venue in Minneapolis. >>
Minnesota gets a bad report card for nitrate reduction (part one)
In the first of a two-part series, we’ll look at the results of the state’s recent nutrient reduction report card. The results are ... not good. >>
State’s Groundwater Protection Rule now in full effect
As noted in a recent MPR News story, Minnesota farm operators will no longer be allowed to apply nitrogen fertilizer in the fall or on frozen ground above Minnesota’s most vulnerable aquifers. While that means cleaner drinking water for many Minnesotans, this rule alone won't solve our nitrate pollution problems. >>
State Supreme Court rules on White Bear Lake water levels
The Minnesota Supreme Court made headlines as it acted to protect not only the metro's second-largest lake but Minnesotans' ability to sue a state agency based on its cumulative environmental impact. >>
Pinelands-to-potatoes fiasco heads to court
A controversial attempt by of a Fargo-based agribusiness giant to skirt Minnesota‘s environmental laws is going to court – and the stakes are huge. >>
Special session #2: A mixed disappointment
On the heels of a regular session and first special session that failed to live up to expectations, Minnesota legislators have wrapped up a second special session with what could generously be considered “mixed results." See how FMR's priorities fared. >>
Study: human-made pollutants in remote, undeveloped lakes?
A recent story from Minnesota Public Radio shines a light on some unexpected (and unnerving) new findings. Even in Minnesota’s relatively remote and pristine lakes, researchers are finding human-made contaminants of concern. >>