Drinking water

There's no excuse for unsafe drinking water. Yet every day, there are Minnesotans whose health is put at risk by outdated lead service lines, aging water treatment infrastructure or community wells tainted with nitrates. Unsurprisingly, it's often economically disadvantaged communities and communities of color who are most at risk. At FMR, we advocate for funding and policies that will ensure all Minnesotans — regardless of their ZIP code — have access to safe drinking water, while simultaneously defending the important environmental protections that do exist.

Drinking water
Tell your senator: Support funding for healthier waters in the Legacy bill

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The bill includes more than $300 million for restoring Minnesota's rivers, lakes, streams and groundwater. But its future is uncertain. Read more
A double-crested cormorant splashing in the water. A text overlay says "MNLEG 2025"
FMR urges MPCA to develop long-overdue nitrate standards

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How much nitrate in our surface waters is safe for plants and animals? We don't know, because the MPCA still hasn't established standards. Read more
An MPCA staffer in waders reaches down to get a sample from shallow waters.
FMR now a Water Over Nickel partner

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FMR signs on as a partner to Water Over Nickel to oppose the negative consequences of nickel mining. Read more
Minnesota wetland
A win for clean drinking water: Petition propels action on nitrate contamination in SE MN

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These collective investments are a laudable first step, but there's more to be done to address the root cause of nitrate pollution in the state. Read more
A hand holds a mason jar filled to the top with clear, clean water. A field of Kernza perennial grain is in the background.
For the 2nd straight year, a major victory for the Clean Water Fund

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Ongoing efforts to address Minnesota’s most pressing water quality challenges and opportunities. Read more
A couple of paddlers in a canoe on the Mississippi River, seen from high above. The shore is lined with golden and red trees.
Restoring public oversight of major MPCA decisions

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We all benefit from community oversight of the biggest, most important agency for pollution regulation in Minnesota. Read more
A flurry of hands in the air, fingers pointed up as if wanting to interject in an important conversation.
Winter oilseeds: Key to clean water and lower emissions

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These clean-water crops, which stay in the soil through the winter, can benefit the river in numerous ways. Read more
Organic farmer Karen Torjesen holds a hand low to the ground, amidst a recently planted field of winter camelina in November, 2023.

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Upcoming Events

Tuesday, May 13, 2025 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Riverside Park, St. Paul Park
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Mississippi River Gorge sand flats, Minneapolis
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 7:30pm
DeLaSalle High School, near Nicollet Island, Minneapolis