Updates and Articles

Where we work: Vermillion River Aquatic Management Area
The cold water trout stream and wide floodplain wetlands at the 450-acre Vermillion River Aquatic Management Area (AMA) in Dakota County offer opportunities for angling, hunting, trapping and wildlife observation. Read more
Wetland area
Minnesota's native thistles: Big benefits for birds, bees and more
Not all thistles we see in Minnesota are non-native and invasive. Here's how you can tell if you're looking at one of our few native thistle species. Read more
Pollinators and insects on the blooming flower of a field thistle.
Q&A: What the latest data says about the Mississippi River's health
The state recently released the newest draft of its Impaired Waters list. We asked FMR Water Program Director Trevor Russell what it tells us about the river. Read more
High Mississippi River water levels in St. Paul in 2024.
New study highlights economic benefits of dam removal
We still have a lot to study and learn about whether dam removal makes sense for the metro Mississippi, but a new report shows us what recreation and tourism could be on a restored river. Read more
A side-by-side showing the current Lower St. Anthony Falls lock and dam next to an illustration of the structure removed.
Parkland or development? Help preserve the vision for the end of the Stone Arch Bridge
Since the 1880s, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board has been committed to expanding public land along the riverfront. A new development proposal puts that vision in jeopardy. Read more
The end of the Stone Arch bridge, leading to the 600 Main St SE property.
Sneak preview: Children's book celebrates caring for the river
Our Environmental Stewardship Institute Youth Council drafted a picture book this year that follows an adventurous mouse from storm drain to river to community cleanup. Here's a peek into their process and the design. Read more
Mouse riding a paper heron on an urban river
The results from our multi-year bumble bee research study are in
How can we improve habitat for bumble bees? That's the question our multi-year research project sought to answer. Read more
Rusty-patched bumble bee on vervain
Minnesota now has environmental guardrails for renewable jet fuel
In a challenging legislative session, FMR and our partners managed a major win for the river: environmental guardrails on an existing tax credit will incentivize new sustainable aviation fuels that help our waters instead of harm their health. Read more
View from an airplane flying above Minneapolis.
Guiding community-led habitat restoration efforts
A new stewardship model for parks beloved by committed neighbors: FMR provides technical guidance, but neighbors lead. Read more
Volunteers walk across bridge toward forested area and Minneapolis buildings
Thanks to our 2025-2026 Stewardship and Education Intern!
Tamya was our School-year Stewardship and Education intern this past year, supporting our youth council, restoration events and more. Read more
Tamya McDonald in prairie

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Upcoming Events

August 1 through October 15, 2026
Throughout St. Paul
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
River Oaks Park, Cottage Grove