Treaties and groundwater in EPA Region 5
Treaties have clear implications for the management of surface waters, but the application to groundwater is less clear. Recent rulemaking by the EPA may make it possible to address water … Read more
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Communicating groundwater science
Water touches many realms and people, yet groundwater policy decisions are commonly made by people with academic credentials who work in recognized bureaucratic organizations. It takes all perspectives to shape … Read more
Emerging recommendations for regional groundwater governance
The following are general recommendations for local leaders participating in groundwater governance. These came from local workshops that spanned jurisdictions and groundwater management areas. Hyperlocal coordination Regional groundwater planning conversations … Read more
Regional planning and the role of groundwater management agreements
The Great Lakes region is perceived as being water-rich, and states promote this asset to attract water-intensive industries. While it is true that the region hosts usable groundwater, the supply … Read more
The industry voice in groundwater governance
Every person and industry uses water. Yet water – a shared, common-pool resource – is often an afterthought in site selection and planning. Industries are important stakeholders in the groundwater-governance … Read more
Local groundwater governance
At the municipal level, governments may have specific regulations regarding groundwater extraction, particularly for municipal water supply purposes. These can include building and construction codes outlining requirements for well construction … Read more
The role of the state in regional groundwater governance
The U.S. federal government is one of limited power when it comes to groundwater quantity. While it retains authority to regulate pollution and discharges to groundwater, individual states are responsible … Read more
Metro apprenticeship programs are making waves for the water workforce
The Cities of Chaska and Plymouth are leaning into developing the next era of the water workforce and are exploring what it means to run successful apprenticeship programs – with … Read more
Five water policy issues to watch this session
The 2025 Minnesota legislative session is up and running, and Freshwater is an active participant, providing nonpartisan science-based perspectives to help policymakers make informed decisions. Wonder what we are up … Read more
Water planning is critical for data centers and other large development projects
In Minnesota and throughout the Midwest, Freshwater is observing tension that has arisen for many of our partners. The question is: How can we support economic development while ensuring water … Read more