agriculture

Dead zone 2020: The good, the bad and the algae

by Peter LaFontaine

August 5, 2020

A smaller-than-average Gulf of Mexico dead zone is cause for celebration — isn't it? >>

Dust in the wind (spreads toxic algae)

by Peter LaFontaine

July 4, 2020

Pristine lakes in remote parts of Minnesota — and around the country — are beginning to suffer from blooms of toxic algae, and scientists are piecing together a troubling answer as to why. >>

Potato fiasco turns even more rotten

by Peter LaFontaine

June 2, 2020

According to new disclosures, an enormous scofflaw corporation is trying to skirt basic environmental regulations in order to make billions on ... potatoes. >>

Minneapolis parks are getting the wrong kind of blooms

by Peter LaFontaine

May 22, 2020

The Parks Department is warning of potentially toxic algae blooms in some of Minneapolis's most-loved lakes. Here's what you need to know. >>

Bake for the river: Kernza in your kitchen

by Peter LaFontaine

May 19, 2020

For the first time ever, home bakers can get their oven mitts on Kernza flour, a delicious and river-friendly perennial grain. Let us know if you try it out! >>

Uncertainty amid promise of agriculture climate solutions (Yale 360)

by Trevor Russell

April 7, 2020

As policymakers and advocates look to croplands to sequester carbon, a recent article from Yale 360 points out that flows of greenhouse gases into and out of soil are complex, and outcomes can be uncertain. >>

Soil isn't a dirt-y word

by Peter LaFontaine

April 6, 2020

You know it when you smell it — good soil is healthy! Here's an explainer for how soil organic matter can make a difference for plants, animals and downstream neighbors. >>