MPCA clamps down on environmental violations

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) completed 75 enforcement cases in the second half of 2024, targeting violations ranging from air emissions to improper stormwater management.

These actions reflect the agency’s ongoing vigilance in upholding state and federal environmental laws, while also working to bring violators back into compliance through education and support. Learn more here.

Dakota Electric secures Lakeville land for future HQ

Dakota Electric Association has purchased a 20-acre parcel in Lakeville for $11.9 million to establish its new headquarters, as confirmed by a recently released certificate of real estate value. The land, sold by Hat Trick Investments LLC, is strategically located just three miles from Dakota Electric's current offices in Farmington.

The cooperative anticipates breaking ground in June 2025, pending final approval from its board of directors. Learn more here.

Minnesota storms leave thousands in the dark

On April 28, severe storms swept across Minnesota, leaving thousands of residents grappling with widespread power outages. By 10:00 pm Xcel Energy reported 300 outages in the Twin Cities alone, and the number of outages eventually surpassed 4,000 statewide. Learn more here.

BioMADE breaks ground on $132 million biomanufacturing facility in Maple Grove

BioMADE, a nonprofit organization focused on advancing biomanufacturing technologies, has unveiled plans for a groundbreaking facility in Maple Grove. The project will encompass 122,000 square feet and aims to provide businesses with the resources to develop innovative products derived from biological sources, including plants, bacteria, and fungi.

Jack Starr, Chief Manufacturing Officer, emphasized the facility's potential to enhance national security by producing critical materials domestically. "Bioindustrial manufacturing has the power to create or improve needed defense materials," Starr stated, highlighting products such as temperature-resistant foams and anti-corrosive lubricants. Learn more here.

From leaves to plates: Minnesota student wins big with eco-friendly innovation

In a remarkable display of entrepreneurial spirit, Hamzah Azzam, a St. Olaf College student, secured the top prize at the prestigious Ole Cup competition held recently. Azzam's innovative startup, LeafyGoods, transforms fallen leaves into compostable tableware, addressing both waste reduction and sustainability.

With a prize of $10,000, Azzam's venture aims to provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic and paper products. Learn more here.

MMUA open house June 6

Join MMUA for a tour of our new offices on Friday, June 6, 2025.

MMUA will host an open house at the new office location in St. Louis Park from 3:00–5:00 pm. Join us for refreshments, tours, and networking with other members.

Please click the link below to register for the open house. We would love to spend some time with you!

Apply for MMUA Utility Workforce Scholarship by May 15

The MMUA Utility Workforce Scholarship supports individuals interested in pursuing careers in the utility sector. Up to five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to students of any age who enroll in a utility-related career program at an eligible institution. The MMUA Utility Workforce Scholarship is open to students seeking credentials as a powerline/lineworker, gas operator, water and wastewater operator, telecommunications/broadband technician, GIS specialist, or other utility-specific programs. 

MMUA members are encouraged to share this information with their communities. The application deadline is May 15, 2025.

MNOSHA Workplace Safety Consultation: Safety Grant Program

Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry's Safety Grant Program awards funds up to $10,000 to qualifying employers for projects designed to reduce the risk of injury and illness to their workers.

Applications may be submitted any time. However, submitted applications are compiled and reviewed in two-month intervals, with upcoming submission deadline dates of June 15, August 15, October 15, and December 15. Learn more here.

Utility Leaders' Legislative Debrief: Interacting on the issues

June 12: Owatonna

June 17: Halstad

June 18: Grand Rapids

June 26: Glencoe



The Minnesota legislature gavels down on May 19. What impact will their decisions this year have on municipal utilities? Join the MMUA government relations team to learn about the legislative session, dive deeper into the sound bites you hear on the news, and gain insight into the little-noticed provisions that will affect your utility.

There is no fee for these sessions, but advance registration is needed for planning purposes.

Registration is now open for virtual leadership development courses

Did you know MMUA offers a diverse range of elective courses that are open to anyone, not just DUEL^(TM) participants?

These courses cover a wide range of topics relevant to municipal utility leadership, allowing participants to select the topic(s) that best align with their career goals, and areas of interest.

These courses are conducted virtually, with each session lasting 90 minutes. Please click here to view the full list of course details and register below. (Psst! If you decide to enroll for DUEL within the next two years, we'll credit you for the electives you have already taken.)

Competent Person and Excavation Safety Workshop



May 20–21

MMUA Training Center

Marshall, MN

This course is intended for public works personnel, water/wastewater personnel, lineworkers, engineering personnel, contract workers, and others involved with underground utility or infrastructure work.

In this workshop, participants engage in classroom discussion and hands-on activity to:

• increase your understanding of the "competent person" role on the job site
• demonstrate correct soil-testing procedures
• identify hazards associated with trenching and excavating
• increase knowledge of different types of protective systems
• further develop proper "pot holing" practices for gas and powerline excavation

Advanced registration ends this Friday, May 9.

MMUA Q2 Human Resources Webinar

Drug testing policy compliance: A guide for leaders

May 22

Webinar

10:00–11:00 am

Join us for an informative session exploring drug testing policies and how they apply to Minnesota’s municipal utilities and cities.

This webinar will cover state and federal compliance requirements, best practices for implementing and updating testing programs, and practical guidance for city and utility employers and HR professionals.

Whether you are reviewing your current policy or developing a new one, this session will provide key insights to help ensure your practices are legally sound and effectively managed.

Cross Training



August 5–7

MMUA Training Center

Marshall, MN

The goal of our Cross Training School is to create a competent ground person who will be able to recognize tools, equipment and hazards to help keep the lineworker safe and efficient. The program was developed for the purpose of providing a basic, yet thorough skills training, so that everyone who participates will leave with a solid foundation from which to build upon.

Register by July 11, 2025 for best rate. Advanced registration ends July 25, 2025.

MMUA event calendar

The calendar lists current enrichment and training opportunities that can help individuals enhance their skills and knowledge in the utility industry. Watch for emails with event specific information. Download the calendar here.