Freshwater has presented to regional and national audiences such as the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, the Joyce Foundation, Minnesota Women’s Press, Minnesota Watersheds conference, American Public Works Association Minnesota chapter, and the American Water Works Association.

We publish guidance documents on best practices and environmental considerations regarding data centers for decision makers:

• • Best Practices for New Data Center Developments (2026)
  • Data Centers and Water Use: What to Consider (2025)

• • During the 2025 Minnesota state legislative session, our efforts contributed to passage of a data center regulatory bill creating a formal DNR preapplication process for data centers planning to use over 100 million gallons of water annually.
  • We provided input to the Clean Water Council on a policy statement for large-volume water users.
  • We are currently working to promote efficient design with emphasis on water circularity, and to increase transparency during the planning process.
  • Learn more about our policy work here.

We are collaborating with Emmons & Olivier Resources on a white paper about large water users for the Metropolitan Council.

We are working on an innovative project with the University of Minnesota to engage with local government leaders in southeastern Minnesota and provide them with tools to evaluate data center development.

We coordinate key discussions with developers, businesses and government leaders, and we provide input on potential projects during the planning stages.