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When leaves fall on streets, sidewalks, and other hardscapes in urban areas, they wash into the storm drains and end up in lakes and rivers where they feed algae growth. The algae then decomposes and uses up oxygen that fish and native plants need.

Kohlman Lake, one of 27 bodies of water to come off the impaired waters list this year, did so with substantial help from the Clean Water Fund.

The MPCA added three bodies of water to the impaired waters list for PFAS contamination. Which are they? How did they get polluted? And how much PFAS does it take to contaminate a body of water?

Increased rainfall from climate change damages river water quality, which in turn damages fishing and recreation.

Intense storms of late spring can wash soil and other pollutants into rivers. Producers can use several techniques to protect their soil and water quality.

This long-term data gathering initiative helps track trends in water bodies around the state. The MPCA is grateful for every volunteer who has dedicated time to monitoring their favorite lake or stream.

The MPCA’s Smart Salting program helps cut down on chloride pollution by training snowplow drivers and municipalities to use less salt on the roadways.

Three members of MN GreenCorps worked through the Minneapolis Public Schools' free meal box program to promote waste reduction and recycling.

Environmental information and permits that affect grain elevators, feed mills and fertilizer mixing plants.

Sandy and Jay Boss Febbo shared their story as part of We Are Water MN, a traveling exhibit and community engagement program that explores Minnesotans’ relationships with water.

Smart technology, conservation practices, and a commitment to clean water help this family dairy and crop operation thrive — while protecting rivers, streams, and future generations.

First of a series of MPCA staff profiles. Kevin Stroom conducts research on streams and has published a report about Straight River.

Carba, a Minnesota-based company focused on carbon-capture technology, took home the MPCA’s Green and Sustainable Chemistry Prize at the 2023 MN Cup

Across the state, water softeners contribute significantly to chloride pollution. Here’s how to make sure your water softener isn’t sending excess salt into the environment

Long-term lake management considers the unique environmental, cultural, and biological factors affecting the lake and sets a priority on finding lasting solutions.

Spilled mercury, even small quantities in the home, should be cleaned up quickly and properly so that people don't come in contact with it or breathe its vapors.

Don't let your septic system freeze. Here are some simple tips that can help you avoid costly problems with your septic system.

Kathy Wagner, recipient of the 2025 Community Conservationist Award from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (MASWCD), discusses her personal conservation work and local environmental advocacy.

Frequently asked questions about SSTS certification and licensing.

Thanks to years of restoration efforts, the MPCA confirmed the Kabekona River meets water quality standards for recreation and proposed its removal from the 2026 impaired waters list.