'It's really, really exciting': Clean-water crops are on the verge of something big
The latest headlines say clean-water crops could finally be taking off. >>
Why it's time for a new federal river program (MRRRI) that supports farmers
When it comes to agriculture, the proposed Mississippi River Restoration & Resilience Initiative would help farmers improve soil, enhance water quality, reduce nutrient loss and boost profitability — goals policymakers of all stripes should agree with. >>
Field days provide a Forever Green respite from this dry summer
This summer has been droughty (and recently, smoky), leaving some conventional crops in trouble. But there are plenty of green growing fields and exciting developments when it comes to some of FMR's favorite clean-water crops. Here's a recap of a few field visits that make us hopeful for our state and our river. >>
Water crisis in Des Moines: Why does a river city need wells?
Des Moines has ample surface water from its two rivers, but contamination from upstream runoff has forced officials to start pivoting to a drastic new plan: drilling $30 million worth of wells. >>
Federal Mississippi River initiative takes flight! Sign the petition
The Everglades, Chesapeake Bay, Puget Sound and the Great Lakes. What do all of these natural resources have that the Mississippi River does not? A dedicated federal restoration program.
But a new bill seeks to change that. Tell Congress you support a whole-river restoration program! >>
Something's rotten in the state of Minnesota
The latest act in the "Pinelands to Potatoes" saga is a blow to environmental protection. >>
Who farms in MN? What the ag census tells us about MN agriculture
As we work to transition our croplands toward more water-friendly systems, it’s important to examine how the ag sector reinforces systematic inequities that disproportionally impact low-income farmers and people of color — so we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. >>
Kernza pays off for MN water supplies
The flagship "clean-water crop" delivers tremendous value in reducing water pollution, reports the Star Tribune. >>
FMR supports call to ramp up federal ag conservation assistance
FMR is proud to be part of a broad coalition of 133 conservation, farmer and rancher, wildlife and other groups urging the leadership of the U.S. House and U.S. Senate agriculture committees to ensure the forthcoming infrastructure package includes robust funding for Farm Bill conservation programs and farmer assistance. >>
Competing Clean Water Fund bills move forward in Legislature
The Clean Water Fund is designated to protect, enhance and restore water quality in lakes, rivers and streams, as well as protect groundwater. Both the Minnesota Senate and House have authored spending proposals, but they're very different, leaving the fate of our legislative priorities — like clean-water crop funding and lead service line replacement — uncertain. >>