Updates and Articles

by Peter LaFontaine

December 5, 2019

Wet weather, a trade war, and low crop prices combined to deal a blow to Minnesota's rural communities in 2019.

Why is this Water Blog news? Because the same strategies that FMR supports to reduce river pollution from agricultural sources can also make farms more profitable and resilient long-term. >>

Projected $1.3B state surplus could be good news for clean water

by Trevor Russell

December 5, 2019

In a delightful bit of news, the State of Minnesota’s December 2019 budget forecast estimates a $1.3 billion preliminary budget surplus for 2020.

While sure to ignite debates regarding both new investments and planned tax cuts during the 2020 Legislative session, this could bode well for much-needed clean water funding. >>

KARE11 covers coyote research after attack

by sue rich

December 5, 2019

FMR ecologist and frequent conservation blog contributor Alex Roth was recently featured by KARE11 in a piece on our metro fox and coyote populations.

Although triggered by a coyote attack on an Inver Grove Heights family's beloved dog, Moose, the story referenced the Twin Cities Fox and Coyote Research Project. FMR is a proud partner for the LCCMR-funded project — and we are so glad that Moose is expected to make a full recovery! Watch the video >>

Gov. Tim Walz forms climate sub-cabinet

by Peter LaFontaine

December 5, 2019

Minnesota is falling short of meeting its climate change goals. A new government initiative seeks to re-energize state efforts and build momentum toward a better future. >>

In the news: Upper Harbor Terminal planning committee resignations

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

December 2, 2019

Recent coverage of the seminal Upper Harbor Terminal riverfront project highlights the concerns of community members appointed to advise the large-scale Minneapolis riverfront project. Community newspaper the Northeaster not only covered the resignation of two committee members but published a letter from the committee's chair echoing their concerns: that the city is unnecessarily prioritizing real estate developers over community members. >>

More than half of Minnesota’s waters don’t meet water quality standards

by Trevor Russell

November 26, 2019

Every two years, the state publishes a list of “impaired” waters that do not meet water quality standards. This year’s list shows that 56% of Minnesota’s lakes, rivers and streams fail to meet standards. >>

PBS: 'How a new grain could help combat climate change' (Video)

by Trevor Russell

November 25, 2019

PBS News Hour recently turned their attention to Minnesota’s efforts to develop Kernza – a perennial wheat that may be key to fixing our lagging soil and river health ... and makes really good pancakes. >>

Habitat piles: Readers' questions answered

by Alex Roth

November 20, 2019

We received a number of emails in response to our earlier update on FMR's wildlife habitat pile event in the river gorge. Most people seem to be excited about the idea that removing invasive species (buckthorn, in this case) could result in additional habitat creation. Others loved the idea and wanted more specific information about how to build those piles. Here we address a few questions and provide some helpful links. >>

Upper Harbor Terminal featured on Fox 9: 'If you build it, will Beyoncé come?'

November 19, 2019

Who will the Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment serve? Fox 9 News recently asked that question. FMR's Colleen O'Connor Toberman was interviewed alongside community members, elected officials, and the development team. >>

FMR helps secure new public land in St. Paul

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

November 15, 2019

When development plans for a unique site on the St. Paul riverfront jeopardized public access, FMR advocated for a better plan. The Waterford Bay project at Island Station now includes new public shoreline and trails. >>