A growing number of rural Midwestern churches -- where generations have been baptized, married and buried -- are closing their doors as rural America loses residents to cities and suburbs. "There’s a kind of sadness to see the rural decline,” one observer says.

The developer of a 50-turbine wind farm says Goodhue County residents are leaving animal carcasses out to attract eagles. The presence of eagles could affect the project. State officials have not verified the accusations.

Minnesota is one of five states to sign on to a deal with White House officials that will speed up the regulatory process for offshore wind farms. The deal comes with some controversy: Critics worry offshore turbines would harm wildlife, lower property values and spoil scenic vistas. Supporters say they will mean new jobs, more homegrown energy and less pollution.

The necessary permits are in place to build a 95-megawatt wind farm north of Paynesville, but Edina-based Geronimo Wind Energy is still looking for a utility company to buy its energy. A St. Cloud Times report says this has delayed construction by a year on central Minnesota's first large-scale wind farm, that includes as many as 60 turbines.