Conservation Minnesota

"Much of the clothing that’s tossed away ends up in landfills and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas and a significant contributor to warming the climate. Decomposing clothes also can release PFAS, or forever chemicals, and microplastics.

And that’s where an innovative machine designed and built by an engineering professor and her students at the University of Minnesota Duluth could help, by recycling unwanted clothing instead of landfilling it."

Duluth engineering professor’s fabric recycler keeps old clothes out of landfills University of Minnesota Duluth engineering professor Abbie Clarke-Sather’s “fiber shredder” breaks clothing down into reusable threads in 90 seconds. The machine may help recycle clothing and keep it out of landfills.

Free Park Day is this Saturday, June 13, 2026!

Celebrate National Get Outdoors Day this Saturday by visiting a Minnesota state park or recreation area. On Saturday, all Minnesota state park or recreation areas are free to enter, all day, no vehicle entry permits needed. Spend time in nature by packing a picnic, going on a hike, or enjoying a waterfront view. There's a state park or recreation area within 30 miles of most Minnesotans, so take this opportunity to explore someplace new or rediscover an old favorite!

There's a Free Park Day in every season! Learn more about Free Park Day on our website: mndnr.gov/freeparkdays