Updates and Articles

FMR volunteer monarch monitoring results show restoration successes
Monarchs have migrated south, and our Pollinator Evaluation Program volunteers have wrapped up their first season of monitoring. Here's what they found. Read more
Monarch on thistle
Keeping the river front of mind in Minnesota's climate change plan
We’ve already seen improvements to the state's climate change plan as a direct result of our feedback, setting up stronger river protections for the years ahead. Read more
A view from above of the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
Where we work: Harmon Park Reserve and Salem Hills Park
Four miles of trails wind through this pair of Inver Grove Heights parks that feature cropland turned prairie, acres of restored savanna, towering oak, maple and basswood trees and a pond that draws wildlife to its waters. Read more
Aerial view of trail, water, forest
3 paddling routes to try, inspired by our 'Paddle, restore and learn' series
A trio of free FMR events combined paddling with education and restoration. From a primer on clean-water crops in a former soybean field-turned prairie to a fishing intro on an oxbow lake in Hastings, these outings weren't typical volunteer events. Read more
Kayaker volunteers with paddles on the river shore
Cottage Grove allows riverbed mine proposal to advance
The Cottage Grove City Council recently approved the environmental review for a riverbed mine next to Lower Grey Cloud Island. FMR and many others still believe that this mine would have major negative impacts — and it might not be legal. Read more
Mississippi River as seen from Pine Bend Bluffs
Agencies and community members push back against river mining proposal in Cottage Grove
A mining company wants to dig for materials beneath the Mississippi River in Cottage Grove. WCCO interviewed FMR's Colleen O'Connor Toberman about pushback from neighbors and government agencies. Read more
Tell Minnesota: Include river-friendly transportation and farming in the new climate plan
The current draft isn't bad, some improvements would help ensure clean water for all communities. Read more
Floodwaters encroach on buildings and paths at St. Paul's Harriet Island.
How the metro riverfront gained strong, cohesive protections
The story of one of the most far-reaching accomplishments for the river since FMR’s founding: riverfront rules all along the metro Mississippi to protect its scenic, cultural and ecological value. Read more
Robinson's Rocks on the river
FMR convenes town halls for St. Paul city leaders and advocates
St. Paul residents showed up for the river and had a chance to speak directly with city leaders about riverfront priorities. Read more
Town Hall crowd with Mayor Carter
St. Paul closes in on final river rules
After years of delays, the St. Paul City Council is poised to vote on a Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area ordinance to guide riverfront development. Residents can join FMR in advocating for the addition of a bird-safe glass requirement. Read more
Downtown St. Paul riverfront

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Upcoming Events

Thursday, December 4, 2025 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
F-O-K Studios, St. Paul
December 5 - 19, 2025
F-O-K Studios in St. Paul
This school year
In your classroom or outside

Our River Campaign:
It all starts here

At the heart of this new campaign is the vision of a healthy Mississippi River.