Environmental Reporter | Environment

Chloe Johnson covers climate change and environmental health issues for the Star Tribune.

A graduate of American University in Washington, D.C., Johnson joined the Star Tribune in 2022. She has completed the Metcalf Institute's Science Immersion Workshop for Journalists, and is a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists. Johnson previously covered the environment at the Charleston Post and Courier in South Carolina, where her work was honored as a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize.


Under pressure to curb pollution, Minneapolis foundry announces it will shut down

Smith Foundry had been in the center of pollution complaints for years. It settled an EPA case last month and said it would keep operating some of its business, but now changed course.


Judge blocks MPCA from restricting hours at St. Paul iron foundry accused of pollution

Regulators say Northern Iron, LLC in St. Paul's Payne-Phalen neighborhood, broke air quality rules for fine particles and lead.


Utility: Coal ash spill in northern Minnesota was five times larger than first thought

Minnesota Power is cleaning up a spill of coal ash-laced water at Boswell Energy Center in Cohasset, Minn.


A million gallons of coal ash wastewater spills at Minnesota Power coal plant

The Duluth-based electric utility said an unknown amount of polluted water had reached a nearby lake after a pipe leaked.


Independence Day celebrations get off to a wet and dreary start

A late round of additional thunderstorms are likely to scuttle fireworks displays. The Minneapolis riverfront display is on, the Park Board says.


St. Paul celebrity chef Justin Sutherland threatened to shoot girlfriend and choked her, charge says

Sutherland's defense attorney strongly denied the allegations.


Rivers cresting in parts of the metro area, as federal aid is approved for 22 counties

In Jordan, the Minnesota River broke a 59-year flooding record on Friday.


Body found in roadside pond off I-94 rest stop in Maple Grove

The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office is investigating.


Young but running out of time, Amara Strande fought 'forever chemicals' to help save the lives of others

She died at 20 working to protect her friends and family from PFAS, which resulted in Amara's Law. Her younger sister Nora has emerged as a powerful voice carrying on her legacy.


Some animals seized from Fridley rescue are now up for adoption at Animal Humane Society

Four dogs and seven cats are looking for their new forever homes after being removed from the rescue where they "endured inadequate medical care and living conditions."