Water Resources Center

A river with rocks and grass at the edge. Pine trees in the distance.

The University of Minnesota’s Water Resources Center provides leadership in freshwater management through cutting-edge research, educational opportunities for students and professionals, and community outreach. Authorized by Congress as one of the nation’s 54 water resources research institutes, we also connect the research expertise at the University to research problems at the national level.

A river with rocks and grass at the edge. Pine trees in the distance.

What we're working on

See our diverse portfolio of programs, projects and events.

Programs and Expertise

Aerial view of a river with a smaller stream branching off to the right.

Where we're going

Read our strategic plan which guides our work and collaborations for the next several years.

Mission and Vision

A calm lake with a metal canoe pulled up to a rocky shore. A red lifejacket and wooden oars sit in the canoe.

What we've accomplished

Learn about our impacts and activities in 2022, our sphere of influence and metrics.

Annual Highlights Report

Upcoming Events

News

  • 'All hands on deck' at Downtown Duluth's 38th annual meeting

    April 20, 2023

    University of Minnesota Duluth plans to bring clinical research and education to the Medical District with a new facility. The university is also pursuing Lot D for a new water-research facility.

  • Snowmelt and rain, where does it drain?

    April 13, 2023

    Maggie Karschnia is a stormwater and watershed extension educator with the University of Minnesota. She serves in a joint position with Minnesota Sea Grant and the Water Resources Center. We caught up with her to talk about spring thaw and stormwater.

  • A Sweeping Solution to Stormwater Pollution

    April 12, 2023

    by Maggie Karschnia, Minnesota Sea Grant, Water Resources Center
    There’s a surprisingly simple and proven solution to stormwater pollution. When it rains in urbanized places like parking lots and paved streets, instead of soaking into the ground, stormwater runs off these impermeable — essentially water-proof — surfaces picking up and transporting pollutants along the way.