State Drinking Water Action Plan

Clean River Partners and other local organizations gathered input from 190 residents across seven Minnesota communities regarding their thoughts on drinking water. Here are our takeaways:

1. Approximately two-thirds of participants supported the development of new state drinking water standards for Minnesota, which would be stricter than federal standards.

2. A majority of respondents expressed trust in their tap water. However, approximately 20% of survey participants expressed distrust in their tap water, with the most common concerns being contaminants, chemicals, and water hardness.

3. When doing statewide community engagement, it is imperative to collaborate with local partners who can reach specific communities and provide cultural context.

4. Emphasizing cultural sensitivity and awareness, respecting the distinct needs of tribal partners, attending to the diversity of languages spoken, and prioritizing communication accessibility are all vital practices when engaging community members.

Community engagement is crucial for understanding Minnesotans’ experiences with drinking water.