Updates and Articles

River drawdown offers a look back in time... and a glimpse of the future?

What did the Mississippi River look like before the locks and dams? For a few days, we got a glimpse near St. Anthony Falls of what a less-encumbered Mississippi might look like if locks and dams are removed. Check out our photos.  >>

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FMR's first-ever virtual gala a hit!

At Our Storied River, we raised close to $170,000 for the river. Thank you! If you missed the livestream or you just want to see it again, check out this collection of our featured river stories, a tour from FMR staff of a few of our favorite places, and glimpses of the artwork created for the event.  >>

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FMR staff at four locations on the river
A serene image for a rocky 2020: FMR's fourth water quality mural

Our latest water quality mural is also our first to focus on the Mississippi River. The postcard-like design showcases the river as a serene destination, created by two local artists with input from students. See the mural up close near the pavilion at Harriet Island.  >>

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Artists work on mural and pose with finished mural
From buckthorn to endangered bumblebees, a habitat success story

We're thrilled that an FMR restoration site, a local woodland once choked with European buckthorn, now supports the rusty patched bumblebee, a federally endangered species. >>

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Action Alert: Submit your comments on the Minneapolis MRCCA draft ordinance [CLOSED]

Minneapolis residents have a chance to weigh in on the MRCCA draft ordinance. While we like a lot about the draft, we think it could be better for the birds. Find out more and submit your comments >>

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Minneapolis residents: Act now to protect your riverfront!

The city of Minneapolis is taking public comments on its new ordinance to guide riverfront development and land management. The ordinance has a lot of strengths, but we'd like to see more protections for birds along this crucial migratory flyway.

Learn more by reading FMR's analysis or attending our upcoming virtual Q&A. >>

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2020 Youth Empowerment Program final projects

This year, participants in our Youth Empowerment Program tackled issues of environmental justice, microplastics, climate change and more. Enjoy a selection of their final projects.  >>

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Program participants stand in grass
State’s Groundwater Protection Rule now in full effect

As noted in a recent MPR News story, Minnesota farm operators will no longer be allowed to apply nitrogen fertilizer in the fall or on frozen ground above Minnesota’s most vulnerable aquifers. While that means cleaner drinking water for many Minnesotans, this rule alone won't solve our nitrate pollution problems.  >>

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State & Strib connect the dots between crops and water health

The Star Tribune recently covered a report that underscores the connection between water quality and the need to alter what we plant in Minnesota's farm fields. But this report wasn't issued by the usual suspects — now the state is actively calling for profitable clean-water crops.  >>

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A field ecology internship in the time of COVID-19

Our summer intern Michaela Hackbarth reflects on the gray catbird's call, how field work requires great people skills, and the expansive feeling at FMR habitat restoration sites.  >>

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