Environmental groups launch studies on Mississippi

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Conservation and agricultural groups say they'll launch new studies to preserve Mississippi River water quality.

The Nature Conservancy will study four upper Mississippi watersheds, including the Root River in Minnesota, the Pecatonica River in Wisconsin, the Boone River in Iowa and the Mackinaw River in Illinois. The group also will work with farmers to reduce agricultural runoff.

The Iowa Soybean Association will conduct research on the Boone and Raccoon rivers. The Delta Wildlife will work to reduce runoff on about 1,000 working farms in the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta region. The National Audubon Society will encourage people throughout the Mississippi watershed to improve water quality and habitat for birds and other wildlife.

St. Louis agricultural company Monsanto will back the project with $5 million.