Fuel standards will push technology

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The federal government has worked with auto manufacturers on aggressive fuel economy standards. Current standards for 2016 will reach 35.5mpg; and if approved, the new car standard would soar to 54.5 mpg in 2025. Environment Minnesota released a report saying high mileage rates could both save Minnesota drivers money at the pump, and be a major step forward for controlling emissions.We talked to engineers at the University of Minnesota who say it’s possible to meet the standard, but expect some tradeoffs Continue Reading

A more memorable Central Corridor

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Even before light rail construction it was sometimes difficult for folks to remember the streets around their favorite businesses. Most commuters look for landmarks, but now a lot of them are gone. Twin Cities art leaders have decided it’s time to create new landmarks on University Avenue. Irrigate is an initiative that trains and supports dozens of artists focused on “placemaking,” creating memorable art along the Central Corridor. It’s a partnership between Springboard for the Arts, the City of St. Paul, and the Twin Cities Local Initiatives Support Corporation.One particular project is at the Rondo Community Outreach Library, the only public library directly on the corridor. Continue Reading

Conservation in the Farm Bill

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Provisions in the 2012 Farm Bill could sustain environmental stewardship going forward. Conservation practices like alternative tilling help farmers reduce topsoil erosion and improve water quality.Area farmers and advocates from the National Wildlife Federation and the Izaak Walton League toured a farm near Northfield to illustrate reasons why land conservation practices could be aligned with taxpayer-supported crop insurance. Continue Reading

Conservation on the farm

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When thinking of sustainable agriculture, we usually picture smaller, organic fruit and vegetable farms. However, more of Minnesota’s larger corn, soybean and cattle producers are adopting sustainable methods with programs like EQIP, CRP and others. Growers are working with environmental groups and policymakers to expand conservation’s small share of the Food and Farm Bill set for renewal in Congress.Northfield farmer Dave Legvold has experimented with no-till fields for years, which helps prevent excessive erosion. Continue Reading

International attention to workers’ rights

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Workers around the world gathered on May 1st to recognize International Workers’ Day. The event was first launched in the late nineteenth century.Workers and labor advocates, along with some Occupy Wall Street activists, marched in Minneapolis to bring awareness to economic inequality and social injustice from recent attacks on Minnesota workers and immigration reform, issues that fully impact Minnesota’s future and economic development potential. Continue Reading