AGP Executive Report

Wildlife & Water Quality: The Minnesota DNR says fish are dying in more lakes and rivers as prolonged heat pushes water temperatures up, and it’s asking people to report fish mortality events so agencies can respond faster. Chronic Wasting Disease: Minnesota confirmed a new chronic wasting disease case in a wild deer in Washington County near Stillwater—about 30 miles from the nearest known detections—triggering a response plan and renewed surveillance. Local Habitat Restoration: Duluth finished a $1.3 million Enger Park Golf Course creek renovation to improve Buckingham Creek habitat for native brook trout, including replacing barriers that worsened water flow and temperatures. Community Water Storytelling: “We Are Water MN” is bringing a traveling exhibit and events to Little Falls (Aug. 13–Oct. 3), funded through Minnesota’s Clean Water Fund, to connect residents with water protection and policy. Cybersecurity & Drinking Water: New reporting highlights how suspected Iranian cyber activity is targeting water systems, underscoring the need for stronger defenses as utilities face climate stress and digital threats. Agriculture & Climate Stress: Farmers are comparing today’s farm pressures to the 1980s crisis, while Minnesota Farmfest spotlights profitability strategies and mental health support for producers. Housing & Land Use: Duluth is considering limiting short-term vacation rentals in single-family homes to protect housing stock, as a moratorium on new licenses nears its end.

Wildfire & BWCAW Access: Phase 5 of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness reopening took effect Aug. 5, with new overnight entry points now available even as northern Minnesota fires have burned about 70,000 acres and cost nearly $44 million. Water Security: Federal and state officials say cyberattacks have hit municipal water systems across at least a dozen states, including Minnesota, disrupting remote control of pumps and valves and prompting boil-water advisories in some places. Climate Resilience in the Built Environment: A new push highlights how Minnesota homes, buildings, and outdoor spaces need design updates for hotter days, wildfire smoke, and weather extremes that historical building data may no longer reflect. Renewables for Biodiversity: Two Minnesota solar farms seeded with native wildflowers and prairie grasses saw insect numbers surge over five years, with native bees and birds increasing as habitat matured. Invasive Species Control: University of Minnesota research-backed guidance says targeted goat grazing can be an effective buckthorn management tool when paired with ongoing follow-up. Agriculture & Trade: Minnesota soybean leaders are hosting a Taiwan trade team, underscoring export demand and growing interest in soybean oil and biofuels. Public Health: North Dakota reported its first 2026 West Nile case, with a Cass County resident hospitalized, as mosquito pools test positive in multiple counties.

Cleanup & Recreation: Thomson Reservoir in Carlton County is reopening for kayaking and rafting after a $30.5 million dredging project removed toxic dioxins and furans from contaminated sediment. Wildlife & Hunting: Minnesota DNR rolled out major 2026 hunting changes, including a new four-year rotating chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance plan and updated carcass disposal and licensing rules. Mining Oversight: DNR received notice of proposed changes to the NorthMet Project and will decide whether a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement is needed. Water Security: A coordinated cyberattack disrupted municipal water systems across Minnesota and other states, with Cloquet reporting manual operation options while federal investigators continue to probe. Prairie in Schools: A Glyndon school is blending agriculture and conservation with restored native prairie plots and community sweet-corn harvests. Public Health: A salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños linked to multiple states, including Minnesota, continues to prompt restaurant removals and recalls. Community Conservation Funding: Long Lake’s Nature Rocks concert raised nearly $35,000 for scholarships supporting outdoor learning.

Chronic Wasting Disease: Minnesota DNR confirmed CWD in a wild deer near Stillwater, urging people to report sick deer as the agency weighs surveillance and management steps in the new detection area. Water Security: A wave of cyberattacks has hit public water systems in at least a dozen states, with experts pointing to weak, internet-connected industrial controls and urging utilities to tighten defenses. Local Governance/Data Centers: Cambridge approved a one-year moratorium on data centers while it studies “hyperscale” impacts and residents’ concerns about environmental and disclosure issues. Mining & Public Input: Minnesota DNR held a public meeting on a proposed Tamarack Mine near McGregor; a 60-day comment period runs through mid-September with another meeting set for Aug. 12. Wildlife & Fisheries: DNR warned of fish mortality tied to prolonged heat and shared how to report events; meanwhile, drought is deepening across much of northeastern Minnesota. Health & Food Safety: Federal officials traced a salmonella outbreak to recalled jalapeños from a grower in Mexico, with hundreds sickened across 27 states.

Water Security: Hackers targeted drinking water and wastewater systems across at least 12 states, with Minnesota utilities among the hardest hit; officials say systems switched to manual controls and no contaminated water reached the public, while federal investigators look at whether the attacks are coordinated. Wildlife & Habitat: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service faces a public comment deadline on a rule that could loosen limits on drainage near protected wetlands in the Prairie Pothole Region—potentially drying duck-breeding ponds. Climate Accountability: A new lawsuit in Washington state argues oil companies helped fuel deadly extreme heat; a judge let the case move forward, raising stakes for climate-related liability. Mining & Water Concerns: Minnesota DNR held a public meeting on draft environmental review scoping for the proposed Tamarack Mine near McGregor, with tribal leaders warning about impacts to water and sensitive ecosystems. Public Health: A salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños has sickened people across 27 states; Qdoba and Chipotle removed the peppers after CDC findings, including Minnesota cases.

Water Cybersecurity: Federal investigators say suspected Iran-linked hackers hit water systems in at least a dozen states, including Minnesota, forcing some utilities into manual operations after attackers took control of pump and valve controls; officials report drinking water stayed safe while agencies strengthened access and monitoring. Wildfire Betting & Arson Risk: A group of Democratic senators warned that prediction-market bets on destructive wildfires could raise the risk of arson, arguing the profit motive could tempt people to start fires. Lake Recreation Rules: Becker County rejected a petition to ban wake boats on Pickerel Lake, but commissioners signaled openness to a narrower approach, including a potential 300-foot-from-shore limit for “surf mode,” pending DNR approval. Wildlife Health: Minnesota DNR confirmed chronic wasting disease in a wild deer near Stillwater, triggering response steps like testing and potential rule changes in the affected area. Climate Heat: A new look at Minnesota’s hottest Augustes since 1895 underscores how extreme heat is becoming more common. Mining Public Input: Minnesota DNR is holding a public meeting on draft environmental review scoping for the proposed Tamarack Mine in Aitkin County. Local Environmental Enforcement: MPCA fined a Saginaw man $15,100 for demolishing and burning without permits, including asbestos-containing materials.

Water Security: Cyberattacks targeting water and wastewater utilities have spread to at least 12 U.S. states, with Iran suspected; federal guidance urges utilities to disconnect from the internet and prepare for manual operations, after Minnesota incidents involving suspected tampering. Drought & Water Supply: The Minnesota DNR declared a drought warning for the Western Lake Superior Watershed, and local suppliers are asking residents to cut non-essential water use as north-central storage drought persists. Wildlife Health: Chronic wasting disease was confirmed in a wild deer near Stillwater, prompting new DNR actions including expanded deer feeding/attractant bans. Local Climate Planning: Circle Pines adopted an environmental stewardship plan with a greenhouse gas inventory and climate vulnerability assessment, funded through an MPCA grant and set to feed into its comprehensive plan. Energy Transition: Xcel’s Sherco coal plant is shutting down and converting to a major solar-and-battery project, reflecting Minnesota’s shift toward faster-build clean power. Rural Health Access: Aspirus Lake View’s Silver Bay Clinic will close Dec. 31, moving services to Two Harbors and raising concerns about rural care access. Community Weather: Twin Cities forecasts call for mostly sunny, dry conditions through Thursday before more storm chances return.

Wildlife Health: Minnesota DNR confirmed chronic wasting disease in a wild deer near Stillwater, after a landowner reported an emaciated, unafraid female deer; the animal was tested at the University of Minnesota’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and found positive, with the detection in deer permit area 236 about 30 miles from the nearest prior cases. Cybersecurity for Drinking Water: Federal officials say suspected Iranian-linked hackers targeted municipal water systems in at least 12 states, starting with Minnesota where 30+ facilities were hit; utilities switched to manual operations and officials report no contamination, while CISA urges stronger passwords and disconnecting exposed systems. Data Centers & Local Pushback: A growing wave of AI data center proposals is colliding with community opposition over impacts like noise and land-use, as some jurisdictions slow or reshape approvals. Privacy Regulation: Vermont joined a multi-state privacy regulators consortium that includes Minnesota, aiming to coordinate enforcement as state data laws roll out. Recreation & Habitat: Iowa’s Lake Iowa and Lake Iowa Marsh draw visitors with fishing, hunting and paddling while managers tackle invasive honeysuckle using drone mapping and targeted treatment. Public Health: CDC expanded a cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico.

Water Infrastructure Cyberattack: A coordinated cyberattack hit more than 30 Minnesota water utilities, briefly taking some systems offline and prompting local conservation notices, while officials say water quality wasn’t compromised; the FBI is investigating suspected Iranian involvement. AI & Security Risks: The attacks are landing as experts warn AI will make future intrusions faster and harder to stop, and as Minnesota faces new scrutiny over AI deepfakes tied to a state “nudification” ban now challenged in court. Extreme Weather Watch: Wisconsin is seeing climate-driven “whiplash” extremes—floods, blizzards, tornado outbreaks, and wildfire smoke—raising concerns about mounting costs and preparedness needs across the region. Harm Reduction Under Pressure: Duluth’s Harm Reduction Sisters says Minnesota health funding is drying up, putting needle exchange and safe injection services at risk. Local Environment & Health: Northland wildfire smoke spurred a Duluth air-purifier donation drive, while Minnesota DNR and partners continue work on wildlife, heat safety, and pollution prevention. Pollution & Land Use: A Minneapolis debate is heating up over converting the former Star Tribune printing site into a data center, with residents raising concerns about noise and impacts.

Water Infrastructure Cybersecurity: The FBI says malicious hackers targeted programmable logic controllers in water and wastewater systems in at least seven states, with Minnesota reporting attacks on 30+ community water systems and Michigan reporting nine; federal and state agencies are urging utilities to disconnect exposed devices from the internet, lock down passwords, and limit remote access. Drought & Water Levels: Minnesota’s DNR says persistent drought is lowering lake levels and creating “storage drought” in north-central areas, with officials warning that a few storms won’t quickly restore normal conditions. Mosquitoes Down: Fewer mosquitoes this summer is tied largely to dry spring and summer conditions that prevent floodwater mosquito eggs from hatching. Solid Waste Rules: Anoka County adopted updated solid waste ordinances as metro counties prepare for state requirements to recycle or compost 75% of waste by 2030. State Parks & Outdoor Value: A national index highlights Minnesota’s state parks, with four parks ranking in the top 40 for affordability and visitor satisfaction. Aviation Safety Funding: MnDOT is awarding $8 million for safety upgrades at 39 Minnesota airports, including runway and taxiway improvements and stormwater planning.

Minnesota Water Cyberattacks: Federal investigators are probing a wave of cyberattacks on municipal water systems, with Minnesota reporting impacts to more than 30 utilities and Michigan reporting nine—officials say systems stayed safe, but some operators shifted to manual control while the FBI and CISA investigate a possible Iran link. Bear Research in Superior National Forest: Wildlife biologist Lynn Rogers spent decades habituating wild black bears to his presence, creating rare long-term observations while drawing criticism over the risks of training bears to humans. Climate-Driven Disaster Risk: A new analysis highlights how July’s heat and wildfire smoke combined across the Northern Hemisphere, with soot affecting about 20% of land area—an urgent reminder for Minnesota wildfire and smoke preparedness. Public Health Under Strain: States Newsroom reports outbreaks are testing the U.S. public health system amid funding cuts and vaccine resistance, as older diseases like measles surge. Wildlife & Food Safety Watch: New World screwworm concerns continue as USDA prepares a phased reopening of cattle trade, while Minnesota experts urge vigilance for emerging pests. Local Environment Policy: Mankato is weighing a 10-cent carryout bag fee proposal backed by a zero-waste group, aiming to cut plastic bag waste while officials consider impacts on small businesses.

Water Infrastructure Cyberattacks: Federal authorities say malicious hackers hit water and wastewater systems in at least seven states, including Minnesota, disrupting operations and in some cases degrading service; the FBI and EPA are urging utilities to pull exposed control systems off the public internet and tighten protections as investigations continue. Minnesota Response & Politics: President Trump rejected an Iran-linked explanation for Minnesota’s water hacks, blaming Gov. Tim Walz and Minnesota officials instead, while Walz pushed back and pointed to federal cybersecurity cuts. Michigan Joins the List: Michigan reported impacts to nine water systems, with officials saying systems continued to operate safely while the FBI investigates. Wildlife & Habitat: The DNR launched new online tools for Minnesota’s Wildlife Action Plan 2025–2035, and it’s also offering $1.7 million in community grants to help communities respond to emerald ash borer. Outdoor Recreation Safety: The DNR highlighted rising complaints involving jet skis and reminded operators to follow personal watercraft rules, including life jacket requirements and legal operating hours. Climate Impacts on Wildlife Care: Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation reported a 25% jump in animal admissions, citing shorter winters, earlier springs, and more storms and flooding.

Critical Infrastructure Cyberattack: Federal and state officials say malicious hackers remotely tampered with internet-connected control systems at water and wastewater utilities, triggering loss of water pressure and flooding in multiple places; Minnesota first reported impacts to more than 30 systems, and Michigan has now confirmed nine water systems were targeted, with no known public health harm. Iran Suspected, Attribution Disputed: U.S. intelligence and federal agencies have pointed to Iran as a leading suspect, while investigators stress conclusions aren’t final; the political blame game is already underway. Local Resilience & Preparedness: CISA is urging utilities to disconnect exposed operational technology from the internet and strengthen defenses as alerts widen to additional states. Native Habitat Win: Faith Lutheran Church in Isle received a $650 EcoFaith grant to build a native pollinator garden, aiming to boost habitat for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Plastic Pollution Pressure: A new push in Maryland highlights why plastic cleanup must tackle sources, not just shorelines, after storms flushed bottles into the Chesapeake Bay. Wildlife & Health Notes: Minnesota’s hunting rules for CWD testing and carcass handling take effect Aug. 1, while tick-borne illness risk remains elevated in parts of the state.

Cybersecurity & Water Safety: Michigan has joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on municipal water systems, with nine Michigan facilities affected and officials saying all systems continued operating “safely” with no known public health impacts. Federal Response: The FBI and EPA say attackers targeted systems used to remotely monitor and control equipment, while CISA warns of a significant rise in threats aimed at programmable controls and urges utilities to remove exposed operational tech from the internet. Suspected Motive/Attribution: Investigators are probing whether Iran-linked actors are behind the broader, multi-state pattern; officials stress attribution is still preliminary, even as political leaders trade blame. Minnesota Context: Minnesota previously reported attacks on 30+ water systems, and the latest reporting underscores how quickly the incident spread beyond state lines.

Cybersecurity & Water Safety: WIRED reports a memo tying cyberattacks on Minnesota water and wastewater utilities to Iran, while federal and state officials say more than 30 Minnesota community systems were hit and many utilities reverted to manual operations to keep water flowing. Local Land Use & Conservation: Itasca County commissioners approved urgent job postings after overtime costs surged, and also blocked a proposed 474-acre deer yard expansion tied to public land concerns. Mining & Water Quality: NewRange Copper Nickel filed federal wetland permit paperwork and requested a supplemental environmental review for the NorthMet Project, touting design changes that would cut discharge water by about 75%. Heat Risk & Public Health: A Minnesota-focused guide warns extreme heat is the deadliest weather hazard and urges hydration, cooling strategies, and early recognition of heat illness. Energy Efficiency: A heat-pump explainer argues cold-climate performance is better than skeptics assume, using temperature-hour data. Wildlife & Hunting: Minnesota DNR released 2026 hunting and trapping regulation updates, including a new CWD surveillance approach and changes to deer hunting rules.

Water Security: The FBI and EPA say hackers hit water and wastewater utilities in at least seven states, including Minnesota, where more than 30 community systems were targeted; CISA warned utilities to pull internet-exposed control devices off public access and route remote connections more securely. Politics & Accountability: President Trump publicly blamed Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for the attacks, but reporting and officials point to Iran as a suspect, while Minnesota leaders and federal agencies stress the investigation is ongoing. Heat Impacts: Minnesota DNR reports thousands of fish died during a mid-July heat wave, with more die-offs possible as hot stretches continue. Wild Rice & Water: Ojibwe speakers at the University of Minnesota Itasca Biological Station warned that manoomin (wild rice) is declining and tied the loss to changes in water and land. Mining & Water Protection: NewRange Copper Nickel submitted updated plans for the NorthMet project, including changes aimed at reducing water discharge, while legislators praised the environmental improvements and the next review steps. Education & Stewardship: Fond du Lac Tribal Community College received $900,000 in grants to expand STEM, hands-on research, and environmental stewardship.