Climate Change

Self-inflicted brain drain at USDA threatens farm economy

by Peter LaFontaine

July 25, 2019

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. >>

Rain, rain, go away: river flooding continues

by Peter LaFontaine

June 11, 2019

Tired of all of the rainstorms yet? This year has been a historically wet and flood-prone year, impacting cities, towns and farms across the Midwest. In this news roundup, find out what's happening and why it matters. >>

Climate change may supercharge farm pollution

by Trevor Russell

October 18, 2018

Climate change is predicted to increase nitrate pollution from cropland in the corn belt by as much as 24% over today’s levels. >>

Restoring habitat on an urban island

by Alex Roth

September 10, 2018

After almost two years of planning, FMR is embarking on our Nicollet Island habitat restoration project designed to enhance wildlife habitat, control erosion and improve water quality. >>

FMR is beginning restoration and enhancement of the natural areas on the north half of Nicollet Island. Photo by MWMO.

MPR: Wetter weather causing sewage headaches for MN cities

by Trevor Russell

August 7, 2018

What happens when you add climate change to aging water infrastructure? Sewage goes where it shouldn't. Learn more from this MPR article by Kirsti Marohn with FMR Water Program Director Trevor Russell.

What if every MN farm applied fertilizer at the recommended rate?

by Trevor Russell

July 17, 2018

At best, “perfect” nutrient management on all of Minnesota’s cropland would reduce nitrate pollution by about 10-15 percent, falling far short of the state’s 45 percent reduction goals to protect our groundwater. >>