Managing the invisible infrastructure behind Minnesota’s water

Behind the scenes, the University of Minnesota’s Water Resources Center and its partners are a big reason why Minnesota is a national leader in water management

July 31, 2026
Water & Climate
Healthy People
Healthy Planet

Read the full story on the University of Minnesota website

The Mississippi River running through the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.

Key takeaways:

  • Water quality and safety depend on hidden infrastructure like septic, wells, and stormwater drains.
  • University of Minnesota research helps inform water management practices around the state and region; the University also directly trains practitioners and addresses local water risks.
  • Minnesota offers robust long-term careers in urban and rural water management and the University is educating the next generation of the water workforce.