Updates and Articles

'Do you think nature has surrendered to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers? I don't think so.'

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

August 15, 2021

A little-known underground wall holds St. Anthony Falls back from a catastrophic collapse that would endanger the Twin Cities' water supply, bridges, and other infrastructure. So why isn't anyone monitoring the wall's condition? FMR board member John Anfinson explained the puzzle in an excellent Star Tribune article. >>

Upper Harbor Terminal: The benefits and their cost

August 12, 2021

It can be challenging to weigh or even track what benefits the Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment promises against their cost. This infographic lays out what we see as possible positive outcomes against the uncertainties and costs. >>

Wending streams, backwaters and rare forest birds — Come with us to Gores WMA

August 11, 2021

We're excited to offer two great ways to get to know this beautiful but lesser-known natural area in Hastings: a virtual bird's eye view plus a hands-on habitat restoration outing with FMR ecologists this September. >>

Why it's time for a new federal river program (MRRRI) that supports farmers

by Trevor Russell

August 9, 2021

When it comes to agriculture, the proposed Mississippi River Restoration & Resilience Initiative would help farmers improve soil, enhance water quality, reduce nutrient loss and boost profitability — goals policymakers of all stripes should agree with. >>

2021 Gulf of Mexico dead zone far bigger than expected

by Peter LaFontaine

August 4, 2021

The dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is three times bigger than it "should" be. Here's what you can do to help restore balance to the Gulf and the Mississippi River. >>

2021 Environmental Stewardship Institute

by Sophie Downey, by Laura Mann Hill, by Ashley O'Neill Prado

August 1, 2021

FMR's third year of the Environmental Stewardship Institute, themed Resilient Waters: Building Community and Connection, wrapped up with spectacular projects from our high school-aged fellows — everything from comic books to interactive websites on topics ranging from composting to pollinators. >>

2021 ESI guest post: Balloons and the environment

July 30, 2021

Environmental Stewardship Institute fellow Brenda drew a cautionary tale to show the impact stray balloons can have on wildlife. >>

2021 ESI guest post: Biodiversity loss in urban areas with a focus on the Twin Cities

July 30, 2021

Summer Environmental Stewardship Institute fellow Holly researched the reasons for biodiversity loss in the Twin Cities and gave solutions for city planners and individuals with environmental justice in mind. She offered up Bridal Veil Open Space in Minneapolis as an example of restored biodiversity in an urban area. >>

2021 ESI guest post: Pollinator potential

July 30, 2021

Environmental Stewardship Institute fellow Fiona researched the potential for pollinator habitat to grow alongside solar farms, as well as her own potential future in the field. >>

2021 ESI guest post: The benefits of composting and how to do it

July 30, 2021

Summer Environmental Stewardship Institute fellow Lydia set up organics recycling at her church and put her design skills to work creating an infographic to explain how and why to compost. >>