There are a few weeks left to comment on the socioeconomic impact of large-scale dairies in the state.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is seeking public input after the state Pollution Control Agency declined to require an environmental impact study for a proposed expansion of a farm near Morris.
The West River Dairy facility will be the largest in the state, expanding from about 7,800 cows to almost 19,000.
By law, the PCA must base its decision on environmental factors.
But many comments through the public process spoke to the social and economic impact of larger dairies.
"Any information presented to the MDA should focus on economic opportunities or challenges, community dynamics, quality of life, and other social and economic topics impacting communities around the state," a news release stated.
"Environmental impacts will not be considered in this process since that subject is under the jurisdiction of the MPCA."
The agency will share a summary of its findings with lawmakers ahead of the 2027 legislative session.
The agency is collecting information on its website through 5 p.m. on Oct. 1.
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Contributed/Ken McBrideGet to know the volunteers behind the mic on KAXE. This week we find out more from "On The River" and "KAXE After Dark" host and volunteer, Ken McBride, aka DJ Lake Poseidon. -
Contributed/UNITYMarla Mesarina is from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and is an enrolled member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate. She is co-president of the UNITY. -
Plus: The Mesabi Trail is complete after 30 years -
Contributed/Author websitesMinnesota authors Julie Guth, Jason Willis, Brian Duren, Jan D. Payne, Christine Husom and William Durbin talk about their books and writing. -
Contributed/LiUNAEmma Krab interviewed LiUNA Local 1097 business manager Shawn Braford about the state of labor in 2026 ahead of Labor Day. -
Emma Krab interviewed LiUNA Local 1097 business manager Shawn Braford about the state of labor in 2026.
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Plus: Marble getes funds to install water filters for manganese and iron; ag department accepts comments on socioeconomic impacts of large dairies, and it's a prolific pinecone season.
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Contributed/Hennepin CountyThe court filing comes ahead of a Sept. 23, 2026, sentencing hearing, 18 months after Eichorn’s arrest as part of an undercover law enforcement sting operation. -
Events this week include the return of the classic movie series in Bigfork, Pride in the Park in Brainerd and art receptions in Aitkin and Bemidji. -
Contributed/iNaturalist user ampatentHeidi Holtan and Charlie Mitchell discuss detailed observations, the joy of pursuing a snake, and the calming sound of nature names.Send us a voice memo through SpeakPipe!
