Environment

Cody Sheik, a microbial ecologist at the Large Lakes Observatory at the University of Minnesota, joined the KAXE Morning Show to discuss how aquatic microorganisms, particularly cyanobacteria, can impact the health of humans and domestic animals.

Mayors from Minnesota to Louisiana converged in Bemidji last week for the annual meeting of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative to announce a new project aimed at preventing plastic pollution.

Late last year, tests conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency revealed the school’s drinking water wells were contaminated with PFAS. As the United States begins to crack down on PFAS contamination, Indigenous communities are getting left behind.

Conservation Minnesota is a statewide organization with the goal of solving environmental problems throughout the state. Its footprint distinguishes the organization from other environmental groups, Brown stated, particularly because of its outreach in Greater Minnesota.

Back to Basics is a sustainable living event in Pine River MN sponsored by Happy Dancing Turtle on Saturday, February 11th.

This show strives to take an in-depth look at some natural resource-based issues important to our region. We’ll not only discuss the problems, but also attempt to highlight some creative solutions. This is the second episode of a new series looking at the history of our local forests.

Lynn Anderson is a member of Tamarack Water Alliance, a group that opposes Talon Metals proposed nickel mine in Aitkin County, Minnesota. Talon is looking to expand domestic sources of nickel, a key element in batteries used in the electric vehicle industry. Anderson joined Heidi Holtan on the KAXE/KBXE Morning Show to explain Tamarack Water Alliance's opposition to the proposed mine. Click the "Listen" player above to hear the full interview.

Scott and John discuss dam removals with Luther Aadland, a long-time expert in river restoration. Their conversation covers impacts on biodiversity, wild rice habitat, human safety, and more.

This week, John and Heidi met with Sophie Greene, PFAs coordinator at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. PFAs are nearly indestructible chemicals that linger in our water systems and environment and pose health risks for humans. Sophie presented as part of the Practical Water Wisdom series with Itasca Waters.

KAXE's Tuesday Morning Show strives to take an in-depth look at some natural resource-based issues important to our region. Producer Mark Jacobs and hosts Heidi Holtan and John Latimer hope to discuss not only the problems but also highlight some creative solutions.