Global action on hybrid and electric vehicle commitments
We're tracking the transition to electric vehicles because moving away from ethanol production has major implications for agriculture and therefore water quality. Here's a very brief summary of recent local and global commitments towards electric vehicle incentives, requirements and production goals. >>
Stormwater's hidden perils
As our climate changes and water infrastructure ages, the challenges of water management are becoming more severe. Ultimately, our changing climate means that Minnesota faces more — and more powerful — storms, leading to sewage emergencies, mega-storms, sandbagged lake houses and twelve billion-dollar price tags. >>
MPR: UN study says don’t worry about microplastics in drinking water – much
Minnesota Public Radio recently highlighted a World Health Organization study on microplastics in drinking water. The conclusion: “…levels of microplastics in drinking water don't appear to be risky, but that research has been spotty and more is needed into their effects on the environment and health.” >>
UN: Global warming is splintering our food supply
Agriculture is a major driver of climate change, but it can also be a big part of the solution. The future of the planet relies on shifting to sustainable practices more rapidly than ever before. >>
"Workhorse" Minnesota River needs our help
The Star Tribune recently highlighted the state's $360 million plan to turn things around for the Minnesota River and cut the river's sediment levels in half. Will it be enough? >>
State research offers fresh look at a troubled Minnesota River
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency recently released a series of reports, studies and plans addressing water contamination in the Minnesota River, the biggest tributary to the Mississippi in our state. It looks like the river is in need of some big changes if we're to meet our state's water quality goals. >>
Attack of the killer... algae?
A destructive storm can have a silver lining; Hurricane Barry seems to have lessened the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone. But this year's algae blooms are still hurting Minnesota's waterways. >>
NPR: As climate changes, taxpayers will shoulder larger U.S. payouts to farmers
A recent National Public Radio story highlighted the risks that climate change may pose to both farm operations and Americans' pocketbooks in the years to come. >>
Listen: Kernza's continuous cover
What is Kernza and why do some experts think it's such a big part of Minnesota's farming future? In the Land Stewardship Project's Ear to the Ground podcast, learn more from the people working to advance this exciting new crop. >>
Self-inflicted brain drain at USDA threatens farm economy
Leaders at the U.S. Department of Agriculture are plowing forward with the relocation of two major research agencies, a move that threatens to push out hundreds of career staffers and undermine scientific inquiry. The country can't afford this setback at a time when the farm economy is threatened from all sides and clear analysis of these threats is paramount. >>