Water

Speaking the same language to bridge the freshwater divide

As corporations set global freshwater targets, the challenge lies in translating those goals into local impact—especially in critical ecosystems like the Mississippi River Basin. Panelists called for stronger institutional support, transparent accountability, and more accessible tools to overcome implementation hurdles. Meaningful water stewardship depends not only on science or strategy, but on relationships built across sectors.

Staying true to our values in uncertain times

Environmental Initiative’s power and impact comes from building relationships and bridging across differences. Board chair, Halston Sleets and executive director, Mike Harley share how we're staying true to our mission, vision, and values despite uncertain times.

State lottery dollars were renewed by voters. What comes next?

Minnesota voters extended lottery funding for the environment in November. Explore what this significant investment means for air, land, water, wildlife, and communities statewide.

Navigating corporate challenges in freshwater stewardship: Insights from the Mississippi River Basin

World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN), and Environmental Initiative have teamed up to support corporate sustainability leaders in setting actionable, science-based freshwater targets through shared learning and collaboration.

Ballot breakdown: How voting yes supports Minnesota’s environment

Minnesotans have a unique opportunity this election to renew critical lottery funding that protects our air, water, and natural spaces. Learn more about what's on the ballot and how you can help.

Introducing Su Legatt, artist-in-residence

Artist, educator, and community organizer Su Legatt was recently commissioned by Environmental Initiative and the Source Water Protection Collaborative to creatively engage Little Falls, Minnesota residents on issues of drinking water and environmental health.

Rethinking campus sustainability: A panel discussion recap

The use of offices and corporate campuses has changed considerably over the past three years. How are sustainability programs adapting? Allison Egan, HealthPartners; Marc Olson, Allianz Life; and Fred Rozumalski, Barr Engineering share their perspective and experiences.

Collaborative policy victory: Lottery reauthorization for Minnesota

The Minnesota Legislature recently passed the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund renewal bill. This important legislation will put a question before voters to reauthorize Minnesota State Lottery funds for conservation. It also creates a new $20 million per year community grants program.

Connecting farmers with nutrients to improve environmental and economic outcomes

MINNEAPOLIS – Protecting Minnesota’s water quality and soil health are priorities for the organizations and farmers in the Headwaters Agricultural Sustainability Partnership (HASP), a group administered by Environmental Initiative. The partnership was recently recognized for its local…

From tap to tapestry: Using art and creativity to protect drinking water

Two artist educators, Sharon and Shirley Nordrum, have been commissioned to creatively engage residents in Little Falls, Minnesota on issues of drinking water and environmental health. The year-long project is initiated by the Source Water Protection Collaborative, a partnership between government agencies, nonprofits, researchers, farmers, and public health experts convened by the nonprofit, Environmental Initiative.