Water Quality

Plus: The Minnesota Department of Agriculture announced it has $11 million to expand its innovative irrigation program; MnDOT staff will host an open house in Cloquet ahead of a planned 2028 project Thursday, Oct. 2; and Kootasca Community Action is gathering gently used costumes for Grand Rapids and I-Falls trick-or-treaters.

The five-year program will work on expanding conservation practices in irrigated agricultural land across Minnesota, with funds for ag producers available in late 2025.

A similar hearing for Bemidji residents will be hosted at the Sanford Event Center on Oct. 8, 2025.

The administrative trial over who will manage wastewater around Lake Bemidji began in July 2025, with hearings Sept. 29-Oct. 10, 2025, in Northern Township and Bemidji.

The 401 Water Quality Certification is required when construction-related activities are proposed near a navigable lake, river, stream or adjacent wetland in Minnesota.

Comments on the environmental assessment worksheet related to the Keetac Tailings Storage Facility Project can be submitted by mail or email.

The restoration goals of the project aim to undo some of the water diversion decisions made a century ago in Minnesota that led to degradation of wetlands and peatlands.

A group of five paddlers is working their way down the Mississippi River. Along the way, they are taking water samples every 50 miles to determine levels of microplastics.

Plus: MnDOT is considering a three-lane roadway in Grand Rapids for the Highway 2/169 corridor and installing roundabouts at several signalized intersections, with a public hearing set for Sept. 10, 2025.

Unlined disposal sites would have to close within eight years of the new rules, according to the draft proposal. The agency is accepting comments through Sept. 12, 2025.