Updates and Articles

Now available: 'Little Mouse, Big River' — a children's book about caring for the river

September 17, 2026

Written by the ESI Youth Council, this book helps young readers see the connection between their neighborhood streets and the mighty river that winds through the Twin Cities. Get your free copy! Read more

Mouse on paper crane paddles down a river flanked by native plants and wildlife

Hike the only gorge on the entire Mississippi River

September 16, 2026

This out-and-back hike runs through the river gorge, an oasis of steep bluffs, rugged ravines and natural springs in the heart of the Twin Cities. Check out our map to get tips and stories from our staff before you go. Read more

Golden maple basswood forest by the river

FMR River Guardians speak up in first round of comments on proposed mine

September 14, 2026

This summer, the public had its first opportunity to comment on a proposed nickel-sulfide mine in Tamarack. Hundreds of FMR River Guardians advocated for clean water for current and future generations. What happens next? Read more

Guiding community-led habitat restoration efforts

September 10, 2026

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

FMR's 2026 ESI summer program highlights

September 8, 2026

Our high school summer program explored the river and the work it takes to keep it healthy. Participants' capstone projects included an animated video, a painted triptych, native planting models and more. See what they created. Read more

Thanks to our 2026 summer field ecology interns!

September 8, 2026

Anna and Jayden, our summer field ecology interns, helped restore and manage conservation sites, and monitored the impacts our habitat restoration work is having on wildlife. Read more

Being a voice for the river at the national SAF Conference

September 3, 2026

FMR was the only environmental advocacy nonprofit to present at this recent fuels-focused conference. Our message? Prioritize clean water, habitat and real sustainability. Read more

Thank you, Tahera. Welcome, Corrie and George!

August 17, 2026

We celebrate the service of our retiring finance director while welcoming our newest director and board member. Read more

Star Tribune publishes FMR, farmer commentary on ag pollution

August 17, 2026

The commentary highlights the most effective solution to agricultural runoff pollution: Clean-water crops and more living cover. Read more

Winter camelina with a screengrab of the Star Tribune piece overlaid.

St. Anthony Falls cutoff wall: No immediate threat, advocacy still needed

August 17, 2026

An important study of the underwater cutoff wall above St. Anthony Falls is now complete. We know a lot more about its condition and failure risks, but one crucial question remains: Who owns it? Read more