Forever Green

State & Strib connect the dots between crops and water health

by sue rich

update

September 8, 2020

The Star Tribune recently covered a report that underscores the connection between water quality and the need to alter what we plant in Minnesota's farm fields. But this report wasn't issued by the usual suspects — now the state is actively calling for profitable clean-water crops. >>

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

by Peter LaFontaine

update

August 5, 2020

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

Bake for the river: Kernza in your kitchen

by Peter LaFontaine

update

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! >>

Why rivers flood

by Trevor Russell

update

February 14, 2020

Community water supplies at risk. Sediment and pollutants washing downstream. Catastrophic floods right around the corner — A recent Star Tribune article reminds us of the growing threat high flows and erosion pose for the Minnesota River — and the toll that takes on our waters and communities. >>

What is Forever Green?

update

January 8, 2020

Perennial crops like Kernza, under development through the University of Minnesota Forever Green Initiative, hold promise for soil and water health, as well as farm profit. Read more

The head of a Kernza grain in a field; behind it is a tour group gathered to learn about the crop.

Thank you, River Guardians!

by Sophie Downey

update

December 11, 2019

Thank you, River Guardians! We deeply appreciate you advocating for clean water and sustainable and equitable development along the river this past year. >>

Another brutal year for MN farmers

by Peter LaFontaine

update

December 5, 2019

Wet weather, a trade war, and low crop prices combined to deal a blow to Minnesota's rural communities in 2019.

Why is this Water Blog news? Because the same strategies that FMR supports to reduce river pollution from agricultural sources can also make farms more profitable and resilient long-term. >>