Updates and Articles

What St. Paul's new riverfront rules should include

October 24, 2023

St. Paul's city council will probably vote on a new critical area ordinance this fall or winter. Here are three provisions we'll be looking for in their next draft. Read more

Sunset from Harriet Island over the river.

Video: How the 'big brown spot' pollutes the Mississippi River

October 16, 2023

When farm fields are bare, there’s nothing to stop soil, fertilizers and other farm chemicals from washing off into our rivers, lakes and streams. This "big brown spot" in the Midwest is by far the largest source of pollution to the Mississippi. Read more

Map of Midwest with brown over much of the area around the Mississippi River

Minnesota's drought contributes to drinking water crisis downriver

October 10, 2023

In this Q&A, Matt Rota at Healthy Gulf in Louisiana talks with FMR about the saltwater intrusion in the Mississippi River threatening New Orleans' drinking water supply — and already impacting communities farther south. Read more

Army Corps boats construct a sill to prevent saltwater intrusion

Nectar and ... blood? A surprising source of nutrients for butterflies

October 2, 2023

Our new pollinator biologist explains the phenomenon of butterfly puddling — sometimes on blood — and how we can make sure these insects get the nutrients and energy they need. Read more

Thank you for joining us at The River Provides

October 2, 2023

Over 250 attendees came together for The River Provides and raised more than $175,000 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

Whitney speaks at podium in front of gala crowd

We've moved! Take a look at FMR's new space

October 1, 2023

Our new office is just across the river from our old location. Check out our new mailing address and a few photos of the space, unpacking in progress. Read more

Arrow points to old brick building near the Wabasha Bridge

St. Paul continues to dodge new riverfront development rules

September 25, 2023

St. Paul's promising ordinance has been stalled for months, with no explanation from city leaders. Read more

The downtown St. Paul skyline stretches across the top of the frame, with the river and residential housing in the foreground.

Now available: FMR's enhanced Cultural Landscapes lesson

September 20, 2023

Our education program teaches hundreds of youth yearly about watersheds, pollution, ecosystems and more. Recently, we updated our cultural connections curriculum to be more engaging, inclusive and user-friendly for educators. Read more

Advisory council listens to a speaker about their cultural river connection

Rave reviews for locally made Kernza goods, even amid market growing pains

September 14, 2023

It takes more than a tasty product to create a market. Learn about how growers, businesses and consumers can work together to support clean-water crops like Kernza. Read more

A recently baked cinnamon apple Kernza muffin is split apart on a plate. A mug can be seen on the table just behind it.

Reflections on the recent youth & climate change ruling

September 14, 2023

A landmark decision for the first constitutional climate trial in the U.S. is about more than climate change. It's about considering the full impact of our actions today, and the power youth have to fight climate change in the courts — and win. Read more