“The Mississippi River is America’s most famous and culturally significant river, and it is degrading due to climate change, habitat loss, invasive species and water pollution,” Olivia Dorothy, American Rivers restoration director based in Illinois, stated in a news release. “This has real impacts on local economies, public safety and quality of life.” The Mississippi is the source of drinking water for 20 million Americans in 50 U.S. cities, and generates an estimated $400 billion a year in economic activity. It’s also home to more than 800 species of fish and wildlife, and is a major flyway for waterfowl and migratory birds. It also has major historical and cultural significance, provides a transportation route for barge traffic and recreational opportunities for tourists, boaters and anglers. “It’s a river that’s troubled, but really important,” said Trevor Russell, water program director for the nonprofit Friends of the Mississippi River.
What else we're watching:
Latest light rail plan puts Blue Line in heart of north Minneapolis Twin Cities transit officials have released their preferred route for the Blue Line extension from downtown Minneapolis to Brooklyn Park, even as they scramble to come up with another $500 million to complete the beleaguered Southwest light rail project.
Scholarships send a ‘shockwave of hope’ around north MinneapolisLast week, every senior at North Community High School found out that, when they graduate this year, they will receive up to $10,000 in scholarship money for post-secondary education.
Plentiful precipitation has North Shore waterfalls roaring. Week after week of spring storms bringing snow and rain may be disappointing to some Minnesotans who like to get outdoors.
