Featured stories

Ask the MPCA: Recycling wooden crates
Businesses, are you wondering how to prevent usable materials from becoming waste?

Lake Superior-North watershed — a growing concern
New report confirms Lake Superior-North watershed contains some of the least-polluted rivers in state. But, increasing development and a changing climate may pose threats.
Sand Hill River project helps fish reconnect to old spawning grounds, reduces erosion
Dams on the Sand Hill River have prevented fish from getting to prime spawning habitat. Recently local partners have been working to remove barriers to allow fish upstream.

Lots of data gives clues to water health
A Minnesota Public Radio story highlights the work put into tracking the conditions of the watersheds in our state.

What’s next for We Are Water MN?
We Are Water MN is an interactive exhibit that focuses on individuals’ relationships with and responsibilities to water. Here's where you'll find the exhibit next.

Countryside cardboard
Businesses in small Minnesota towns like Vergas have a harder time finding recycling services. Helped by a grant, Otter Tail County found a way to change that.

Tapping in to RETAP is a great way to reduce energy costs
Minnesota RETAP member Rin Porter says they recommend the easiest, cheapest things to fix, along with the more expensive ones.

Adapting to climate change in Minnesota
Changes in temperatures and precipitation are already affecting our state’s environment, economy, and communities. This report highlights what the state is doing to adapt.

Yard and garden tips
For many of us Minnesotans, summer means getting out in the yard and garden. Here are a few tips to help give your lawn and garden an environmentally friendly boost this year.

Sampling our lakes and streams
MPCA teams are out this summer checking the health of Minnesota waters. KARE-11 filmed the crew working on the Ripple River south of Aitkin to show what they're doing.

Adventures in citizen monitoring on Lake Superior
For years, Katya and Mark Gordon have spent part of their summer on Lake Superior monitoring water quality. They see that rising temperatures are affecting water clarity.

Blue-green algae: If in doubt, stay out
Summer is here, and while water enthusiasts and pets enjoy swimming and boating when the weather is calm and sunny, these conditions are perfect for growing blue-green algae, which can be harmful to both people and animals.

Ask the MPCA: What to do with a septic tank?
Switching over to a city sewer system from a septic system? Here's what to do with your current septic tank.

Air quality forecasting goes statewide
MPCA has redesigned its Air Quality Index (AQI) forecasting and alert program so it can forecast air quality conditions statewide.

It’s a good year to become a water monitor
David Tacke has been a volunteer water monitor for 3 years in Fillmore County. He's passionate about offering time and talent for the greater good.