Environment

Ballast water — the water that large ships take on to stabilize themselves when they’re running without cargo aboard — is a hot topic in Minnesota and in Washington, D.C., these days. Ballast water containing organisms taken on in one distant location and discharged in local waters is credited for bringing at least 30 aquatic invasive species to Lake Superior. MORE »

The Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), through the Minnesota Energy Challenge, is giving away 10 free home energy audits and, for one lucky winner, an energy “makeover” worth up to $15,000. The deadline to enter is May 15. Register online, or a paper application is available by calling 612-335-5852. MORE »

When I was almost 15, in 1961, I took a 50 mile hike for JFK’s fitness promotion. It wasn’t the plan, but I ended up walking by myself. All my friends, who were also going to go “for the President, and for our country”, found some good reason at the last minute to drop out. I was a good athlete, and this was a challenge, so I went anyway. My dad helped plan the route for us, and I think I didn’t even tell my parents when I learned no one else was going. They might have tried to stop me. MORE »

Fresh floral arrangements bring a burst of color and elegance to any party. But are they a green party choice? Some say no. They argue cut flowers quickly die, adding to party waste. Plus, let’s face it, long-stem calla lilies are gorgeous, but they don’t exactly grow in Minnesota. Vast amounts of fuel are needed to get those pretty white blooms here. MORE »