September 11, 2003 - The U.S. Agriculture Department confirmed today what Minnesota farmers already know: drought has damaged their crops. The USDA's latest estimate describes a shrinking soybean crop and smaller corn yields compared to what was expected in August. But even with the gloomy numbers, there was good news this week for some livestock farmers. Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports.
September 3, 2003 - The late summer drought has caused more than one billion dollars damage to Minnesota crops. That estimate today from state and federal agriculture officials. They say most of the state has been affected by the dry weather. State agriculture department officials say they will ask Governor Pawlenty to ask for a federal disaster declaration. And farmers aren't the only ones wondering when it will rain. Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports.
September 2, 2003 - Ed Meese, U.S. Attorney General under President Reagan, was in Minnesota today speaking about the Patriot Act. He called the act an important step in protecting America from terrorists. However, some groups call the legislation a threat to civil liberties. Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports.
August 13, 2003 - Another Minnesota National Guard Unit leaves today for active duty. The 1st Battalion of the 125th Field Artillery will go first to Fort McCoy, Wisconsin for training before heading overseas. Farewell ceremonies have been held for the unit throughout southern Minnesota, including one Tuesday afternoon in New Ulm. Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports.
August 12, 2003 - Later today (Tues) the US Ag Department will issue the first field-based soybean crop estimate of the season. It's expected a decent year, although there are concerns about dry weather and insects Minnesota soybean producers are worried about damage from an emerging pest, the soybean aphid. The bug has spread rapidly since it was first found in the state three years ago. It's an economic concern for farmers. But it also demonstrates how organisms brought to the U.S. from overseas are forming new ecological communities. Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports.
July 2, 2003 - The Missouri River is nicknamed the "Big Muddy". But for the last 50 years that description applies more to its politics than the water. Ever since a half dozen dams were built on the upper Missouri, most of the river is surprisingly clear. But the dam's clouded the river's politics like never before. The fallout has divided the Missouri basin into two camps: upstream and downstream. And so far downstream is winning. Mark Steil begins a new Mainstreet Radio series we call, "Water Wars." HOST BACKANNOUNCE: This year the Garrision Dam, on the upper Missouri, is 50 years old. Our series continues on All Things Considered with a look back at that project and the bitterness that still exists. There's much more on the web at Minnesota Public Radio dot-org.
June 12, 2003 - In a rare visit to the Midwest, a national windsurfing contest is being held in Minnesota this week. Competitors in the U.S. Windsurfing National Championships will race around a set course on Lake Okabena in Worthington. It's one of the windiest places in the state. But organizers of the event say wind is only one of the reason they choose southwest Minnesota. Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports.
June 5, 2003 - Mainstreet Radio's Mark Steil reports on annual concert held in a Mankato quarry. Thousands of people show up to listen to the Mankato Orchestra and blues rock band City Mouse.
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