The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has been trying for years to figure out how to get taconite mines to reduce the sulfate in their effluent because it damages wild rice. The current effort involves something called Site Specific Standards, and it looks likely that it will have no more success than previous attempts.
In northern Minnesota, early adopters make the case for cold-climate heat pumps
Heat pump installers and early adopters in and around Duluth, Minnesota, are demonstrating how the technology can work even in a notoriously cold climate such as northern Minnesota.
Groups ask for further study of Northshore Mine Tailings Pond Work
Northshore Mine in Silver Bay wants to expand its tailings pond; environmental groups are asking for a thorough Environmental Impact Statement.
Trying (again) to tackle mercury in the St. Louis River
Taking steps to put the St. Louis River on a mercury diet.
Wind Resistance
Wind turbines are being built in ocean waters off the east and west coasts. But why don’t we see any in the Great Lakes?
Living with Aquatic Invaders
Scientists have learned a lot about aquatic invasive species, and experts now say the appearance of an exotic species in a body of water doesn’t necessarily mean the end of life as we know it.
Experts clash over logging in wildlife areas
“Timber sales are not planned by wildlife managers; they’re assigned from the top down.”
EPA okays new Minnesota water quality rules
The federal government has approved controversial water quality changes for Minnesota.
Working with fire, traditionally
A new short film, Oshkigin: Spirit of Fire, shows the traditional controlled burning practices of the Anishinaabe people. These small burns help prevent wildfires from getting out of hand.
Duluth’s beach struggles
“People in the community were grateful we were getting some kind of help, but it turned out to be an epic disaster.”