Updates and Articles

Our River Campaign: It all starts here
The next 10 years are critical for the future of the river and its communities. That's why we're launching the Our River Campaign. Read more
Thank you for joining us for our 2024 fall gala
Over 250 attendees came together to raise more than $165,000 to protect the river and the communities it sustains. Thanks to all who participated! Check out our photos of the evening and a recap of the program highlights. Read more
Smiling guests at event close
Where we work: Father Hennepin Bluff Park
This 6-acre natural area nestled under the bluffs below St. Anthony Falls provides a riverside respite for both people and wildlife near downtown Minneapolis. We're working with dedicated community volunteers to restore habitat here. Read more
Father Hennepin Bluff Park
Could clean-water crops fuel your flights?
There's great promise for the use of winter oilseeds as sustainable aviation fuel — but there are also challenges. Read more
Airplane flies over blue river surrounded by yellow flowers
Welcome to two new Stewardship & Education staff
A new program director and our first-ever Climate Impact Corps member are joining the team this fall. We're also bidding a fond farewell to Ivy Song, our event assistant. Read more
Jacob and Kassidy
Reconnecting with the river: FMR's 2024 summer youth program
On weekly paddles and outings, our Environmental Stewardship Institute fellows got to know more about metro waters and the communities working to steward them. Check out photos, reflections and capstone projects from this year's cohort. Read more
ESI fellows smile in canoes
Thank you, summer 2024 interns!
Our summer interns supported FMR's conservation work, conducting bird, plant and monarch surveys and more. Here are their reflections and highlights. Read more
Intern surveys with ecologists
What the lottery-backed environment fund has made possible for the Mississippi River
Vote YES to rededicate lottery funds to our great outdoors this fall. This fund has helped uncover the hidden risks of triclosan, restore 1,000+ acres of habitat, figure out the best way to deter invasive carp, advance clean-water crops and more. Read more
Pine Bend Bluffs SNA in the fall with a view of the river from bluffs
Celebrating the carp deterrent win — and starting what comes next
"We owe it to every Minnesotan to see this project through," FMR's Colleen O'Connor Toberman said at a press conference. Read more
Coalition members, legislators and agency staff all pose for a celebratory photo outside at Harriet Island.
Share your thoughts, hopes for Dakota County parks, greenways and natural areas
Is there a park-related topic that you’re passionate about? Or something you'd like to see emphasized in Dakota County's parks and natural areas over the next few decades? If so, this is your chance to have your voice heard. Read more

Pages

Upcoming Events

Saturday, May 23, 2026 - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Mississippi River Gorge 'beach,' Minneapolis
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Near the Mississippi River backwaters, St. Paul Park
Wednesday, May 27, 2026 - 7:00pm
Dual Citizen Brewing, St. Paul

Join us for Music for the Mississippi River 

Celebrate the Mississippi River and support FMR with Tina Schlieske and Molly Maher, May 30 at Dual Citizen Brewing in St. Paul.