agriculture

'It's really, really exciting': Clean-water crops are on the verge of something big

by Peter LaFontaine

update

September 8, 2021

The latest headlines say clean-water crops could finally be taking off. >>

Why it's time for a new federal river program (MRRRI) that supports farmers

by Trevor Russell

update

August 9, 2021

When it comes to agriculture, the proposed Mississippi River Restoration & Resilience Initiative would help farmers improve soil, enhance water quality, reduce nutrient loss and boost profitability — goals policymakers of all stripes should agree with. >>

Field days provide a Forever Green respite from this dry summer

by Peter LaFontaine

update

July 30, 2021

This summer has been droughty (and recently, smoky), leaving some conventional crops in trouble. But there are plenty of green growing fields and exciting developments when it comes to some of FMR's favorite clean-water crops. Here's a recap of a few field visits that make us hopeful for our state and our river. >>

Water crisis in Des Moines: Why does a river city need wells?

by Peter LaFontaine

update

July 12, 2021

Des Moines has ample surface water from its two rivers, but contamination from upstream runoff has forced officials to start pivoting to a drastic new plan: drilling $30 million worth of wells. >>

Federal Mississippi River initiative takes flight! Sign the petition

update

June 24, 2021

Learn more about how the Mississippi River Restoration and Resilience Initiative (MRRRI) Act could help restore the Mighty Mississippi. Read more

A bald eagle, wings spread wide, as it soars over water.

Something's rotten in the state of Minnesota

update

June 1, 2021

The latest act in the "Pinelands to Potatoes" saga is a blow to environmental protection. >>

Who farms in MN? What the ag census tells us about MN agriculture

by Trevor Russell

update

May 19, 2021

As we work to transition our croplands toward more water-friendly systems, it’s important to examine how the ag sector reinforces systematic inequities that disproportionally impact low-income farmers and people of color — so we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. >>