Updates and Articles

Keeping the river front of mind in Minnesota's climate change plan
November 11, 2025
We’ve already seen improvements to the state's climate change plan as a direct result of our feedback, setting up stronger river protections for the years ahead. Read more
A view from above of the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge
Where we work: Harmon Park Reserve and Salem Hills Park
November 10, 2025
Four miles of trails wind through this pair of Inver Grove Heights parks that feature cropland turned prairie, acres of restored savanna, towering oak, maple and basswood trees and a pond that draws wildlife to its waters. Read more
Aerial view of trail, water, forest
3 paddling routes to try, inspired by our 'Paddle, restore and learn' series
November 6, 2025
A trio of free FMR events combined paddling with education and restoration. From a primer on clean-water crops in a former soybean field-turned prairie to a fishing intro on an oxbow lake in Hastings, these outings weren't typical volunteer events. Read more
Kayaker volunteers with paddles on the river shore
Cottage Grove allows riverbed mine proposal to advance
November 6, 2025
The Cottage Grove City Council recently approved the environmental review for a riverbed mine next to Lower Grey Cloud Island. FMR and many others still believe that this mine would have major negative impacts — and it might not be legal. Read more
Mississippi River as seen from Pine Bend Bluffs
Agencies and community members push back against river mining proposal in Cottage Grove
November 6, 2025
A mining company wants to dig for materials beneath the Mississippi River in Cottage Grove. WCCO interviewed FMR's Colleen O'Connor Toberman about pushback from neighbors and government agencies. Read more
Tell Minnesota: Include river-friendly transportation and farming in the new climate plan
October 31, 2025
The current draft isn't bad, some improvements would help ensure clean water for all communities. Read more
Floodwaters encroach on buildings and paths at St. Paul's Harriet Island.
FMR convenes town halls for St. Paul city leaders and advocates
October 24, 2025
St. Paul residents showed up for the river and had a chance to speak directly with city leaders about riverfront priorities. Read more
Town Hall crowd with Mayor Carter
St. Paul closes in on final river rules
October 22, 2025
After years of delays, the St. Paul City Council is poised to vote on a Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area ordinance to guide riverfront development. Residents can join FMR in advocating for the addition of a bird-safe glass requirement. Read more
Downtown St. Paul riverfront
Ripple effects: The government shutdown and MN's national parks
October 16, 2025
Titles should be sentence-case. Skip "Teaser Image" above! But please enter a draft teaser here. You'll get cut off at 250 characters. The # of remaining characters will show below. Skip "Legacy Fields" below. Read more
A sign on a USFWS bathroom door saying it is closed due to the federal shutdown.
What about water quality? 3 takeaways from our time at the SAF Conference
October 14, 2025
Two members of FMR's Water program attended to be a voice for the river and clean water in discussions around Sustainable Aviation Fuel policy. Read more
FMR's Meghan Anderson and Trevor Russell speaking to attendees at the SAF Conference.

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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
Election 2026: Voting guide
Now through Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026
Your polling place
Educators: Bring FMR to your students
This school year
In your classroom or outside

See all Upcoming Events