MN MPCA Environmental RSS

Minnesota Seeks Volunteer Water Monitors for Lakes and Streams

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is recruiting volunteers for its Volunteer Water Monitoring Program, now in its 53rd year. Volunteers conduct water clarity tests twice monthly from April to September on lakes and streams of their choosing, with equipment and training provided. Data collected supports state water quality assessments and may be the only monitoring data available for certain bodies of water.

Lake of the Woods water quality improving, fewer algal blooms

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency released findings from MPCA-funded research showing Lake of the Woods is experiencing improved water quality conditions. Total phosphorus and chlorophyll levels are trending downward, with data suggesting a potential 23%-29% reduction in total phosphorus in the lake's active sediment. The lake remains on Minnesota's impaired waters list pending completion of a Total Maximum Daily Load study.

Conservation Officer Profile and We Are Water MN Traveling Exhibit

MPCA published a feature story on Conservation Officer Phil George and the We Are Water MN traveling exhibit hosted at Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo in Byron, Minnesota. The story highlights the role of conservation officers in protecting Minnesota's public waters and promotes the free exhibit running through April 20, 2026.

Climate Action Framework update builds on past successes, calls for accelerating climate action

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency released the 2026 Climate Action Framework on February 11, 2026, an update to the original 2022 framework developed with input from hundreds of Minnesotans. The framework outlines over 400 specific actions across seven goal areas to meet state climate targets of 50% GHG reduction by 2030 and 100% carbon neutrality by 2050. Near-term priorities include achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040, accelerating electric vehicle adoption, reducing building emissions, and cutting agriculture emissions.

Minnesota Nutrient Reduction Strategy tracks progress, maps path to water quality goals

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency released the 2025 Minnesota Nutrient Reduction Strategy update, reporting that water flowing out of Minnesota through the Mississippi River now carries 32% less phosphorus and 6% less nitrogen compared to baseline levels. The strategy, developed by over 100 experts from state, federal, and local agencies, updates the original 2014 Minnesota NRS and maps a path to meet 2040 water quality goals through expanded voluntary and regulatory programs.