Climate Change in Minnesota: Minnesota River Expanding, Raising Flooding and Erosion Concerns

By Bradley Carlin

There’s no doubt that climate change is having effects on temperatures and weather patterns globally, but here in Minnesota we’re seeing some pressing environmental concerns that are causing policymakers and local residents to seek immediate efforts to help address the side effects of global warming. 

One such concern is the expansion of the Minnesota River. The river’s width has nearly doubled in some areas since the 1940’s, encroaching on and threatening personal property, roads, and ecosystems. Higher-than-average rainfalls are a large contributing factor to the river’s overflow, with last year being the wettest year on record for Minnesota.  According to a 2017 study by Utah State University, the increase of rainfall and severe storms more generally has caused the river’s flow to double since the 1950’s. This added volume of water has raised concerns of both flooding and erosion along the river bank. For instance, in Mankato, Minnesota, the river has expanded outwards over 50 feet, bringing it just 8 feet away from the well the town uses for drinking water. 

Policy makers and local residents are quickly seeking both temporary and long-term solutions to help relieve the river’s overflow, reduce erosion, and improve water quality. 

It is hoped that these solutions, while currently only treating the symptoms of global warming, will spark more changes aimed at a more holistic approach to addressing climate change. 

You can read a great write-up of some of the more pressing environmental concerns related to the Minnesota River in this recent article in the Minneapolis StarTribune

Bradley Carlin: 3 Events to Check out in Minneapolis-St Paul this Weekend

Winter Fest Craft Beer Tasting

Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild’s WinterFest is going on this Friday, January 17th from 7:00 – 10:00pm. The annual event brings over 100 Minnesota breweries under one roof for a night of craft beer tastings and food pairings. Your $80 admission ticket gets you unlimited beer tastings, unlimited small-plate food pairings, and a commemorative tasting glass. All proceeds go to benefit the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild.

When: Friday, January 17 from 7:00 – 10:00pm

Location: Polaris Club | US Bank Stadium | 401 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55415

Things to know: No guests under 21 admitted (Photo ID required). No pets.  

Event Website: https://www.mncraftbrew.org/event/winterfest/

Acoustic Guitarathon 

The Minnesota Guitar Society is hosting its annual Acoustic Guitarathon on Saturday, January 18th at 7:30pm. The concert will feature both up-and-coming and established artists from a variety of musical backgrounds. 

When: Saturday, January 18 at 7:30pm

Location: Sundin Music Hall | 1531 Hewitt Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104 

Event Website: https://www.mnguitar.org/sundin-concerts-19-20/2019/mgq-c23lm-l25se-d7k2m-2n6l6

Spring Brook Nature Center’s Winterfest

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventures this weekend, look no further than the Spring Brook Nature Center’s Winterfest in suburban Fridley, Minnesota. Enjoy family-friendly adventures like snowshoeing, trail activities, a medallion hunt, and a visiting dog sled team. The event will last from 12:00 – 3:00pm on Saturday, January 18th. 

When: Saturday, January 18 from 12:00 to 3:00pm

Location: Spring Brook Nature Center | 100 85th Ave, Fridley, MN 55432 

Event Website: https://www.springbrooknaturecenter.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=1152

Minneapolis Live Music: Three Local Music Spots to Check Out this Weekend

The Minneapolis music scene is as diverse as it is ubiquitous. No matter your genre of preference, you’re destined to find a great local spot to enjoy some of your favorite artists, as well as discover new bands and artists just getting started in their careers.

Whether you’re a local or are just passing through, check out this latest Medium.com Post with a few legendary Minneapolis music venues to check out.

https://medium.com/@brad_carlin/bradley-carlin-minneapolis-live-music-three-local-music-spots-to-check-out-this-weekend-1c858a8e7e84