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 Yet every day, there are Minnesotans whose health is put at risk by outdated lead service lines, aging water treatment infrastructure or community wells tainted with nitrates.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
Mississippi River diversion pipeline is impractical, study says
Could the Mississippi River refill the Southwest's freshwater reserves? A recent study says the idea of a diversion pipeline doesn't hold water. Read more
Franklin Avenue Bridge and Mississippi River
Governor Walz proposes $200 million in bonding for water infrastructure

One of FMR’s top priorities this legislative session is investing in Minnesota’s water infrastructure. That’s why we’re asking Gov. Tim Walz and the Legislature to help #FixThePipesMN — and why we’re so pleased that Walz proposed $200 million in water infrastructure investment through the bonding bill this session.  >>

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What the federal infrastructure bill means for Minnesota's waters

Congress passed a long-awaited Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which President Biden signed into law on November 15. Here's what it means for Minnesota's waters.  >>

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Can we make Minnesota's drinking water lead-free?

Everyone deserves clean, safe drinking water. Unfortunately, though lead was banned for plumbing in 1986, existing lead pipes remain a threat in Minnesota. FMR is working with our partners to advance three emerging opportunities to fund lead service line replacement.  >>

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

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.  >>

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Climate change, climate justice and FMR's Water program

Climate change has worsened river flooding and drinking water pollution, making FMR's water program work even more important for climate resilience, adaptation, and justice. Here are some reflections on how our Water program's work intersects with both climate change and climate justice.  >>

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Upcoming Events

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 9:30am to 12:00pm
West River Parkway and 36th Street/44th Street, Minneapolis
Applications due Friday, May 3 by 5 p.m.
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Wednesday, May 8, 2024 - 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Hampton Woods Wildlife Management Area