Updates and Articles

New FMR study will help answer crucial questions about potential dam removal
May 26, 2026
We've known for many years that two locks and dams in Minneapolis and St. Paul might be worth removing. Now, a new FMR study will find out what's possible for the future of the river gorge. Read more
Lock and dam and Minneapolis skyline; Lock and dam near island
How FMR's priorities for the Mississippi River fared — 2026
May 20, 2026
This session featured calm, chaos and a late boost from River Guardians that helped make it a big success for the river. Read more
A collage of scenes from the Capitol this session, featuring FMR staff, lawmakers and partners.
Check out our stream health report from 2025 monitoring
May 19, 2026
Here's what we found out about water quality by sampling tiny aquatic insects in the Rice Creek watershed last year. Read more
2025 SHEP volunteer at stream training, 18 volunteers and field training instructor stand by water with waders and gear.
Where we work: Gores Wildlife Management Area
May 18, 2026
This 7,000-acre network of winding backwaters and lush green islands where the Vermillion meets the Mississippi is one of the largest expanses of floodplain native plant communities in southeast Minnesota. Read more
Weltands and confluence of rivers with Hastings bridge in background
Welcome Shelley and farewell Barb!
May 14, 2026
Barb, our accounting manager of 17 years, has retired. We're celebrating her service and welcoming our newest team member. Read more
Shelly and Barb
Prescribed burns: How fire can help restore habitat
May 13, 2026
Planned, controlled burns can reinvigorate some of Minnesota's ecosystems, helping to support more resilient, thriving habitat. Here's how. Read more
Prescribed fire in a prairie
Earth Day rally highlights threats to clean water
May 7, 2026
FMR staff and River Guardians joined clean water advocates at the Minnesota State Capitol for an Earth Day rally. The event called attention to the risks of the proposed sulfide mine in the Mississippi headwaters. You can weigh in this summer. Read more
Colleen speaking at Earth Day rally
Take action: Urge lawmakers to pass environmental funding bills
April 29, 2026
More than 150 projects that benefit clean water and the outdoors depend on this funding. Send a message to your legislators, urging them to approve these bills. Read more
Skunk cabbage at Rosemount Preserve
The final stretch: What to watch for as the session nears its end
April 20, 2026
Checking in on FMR's river priorities, including environmental guardrails on new jet fuel, conservation funding, a carp deterrent deadline and more. Read more
Minnesota Capitol in the evening.
VIDEO: Restoration done right — Community, conservation and the Vermillion River
April 16, 2026
Together with the Hmong American Farmers Association, Twin Cities Trout Unlimited and the DNR, we've turned former croplands and degraded woodlands into diverse native habitat along the Vermillion River. Trout populations are already responding. Read more
People carry bags through savanna

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Upcoming Events

Oak woodland brush haul + lunch [FULL]
Saturday, October 24, 2026 - 9:00am to 12:00pm
3M's oak woodlands, Cottage Grove
A toast to FMR with Wabasha Brewing
Sunday, November 1, noon-8 p.m.
Wabasha Brewing Taproom, St. Paul
Election 2026: Voting guide
Now through Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026
Your polling place

See all Upcoming Events