Updates and Articles

FMR’s comments on the proposed Groundwater Protection Rule

On August 15, FMR staff submitted comments to Judge Palmer-Denig in support of approving and improving the state’s proposed Groundwater Protection Rule. >>

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Gwen Westerman joins the stellar lineup of 'The River Inspires'

 An Evening Celebrating the Mississippi River - September 20, 2018.

Come be inspired by acclaimed local artists — including Dakota fiber artist, poet and educator Dr. Gwen Westerman — as we celebrate our connection to the Mississippi River at "An Evening Celebrating the Mississippi River," September 20. >>

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Bao Phi, award-winning poet, to be featured at FMR's annual fall event

Don't miss Bao Phi — two-time Minnesota Grand Slam champion and National Poetry Slam finalist — as he shares his poetry and connection to our Big River at our signature annual event, "An Evening Celebrating the River," September 20 in downtown Minneapolis.

This year's theme is "The River Inspires," and spotlights the special connection between the river and our thriving arts community. >>

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Minneapolis-based poet, Bao Phi.
MPR: Wetter weather causing sewage headaches for MN cities

What happens when you add climate change to aging water infrastructure? Sewage goes where it shouldn't. Learn more from this MPR article by Kirsti Marohn with FMR Water Program Director Trevor Russell

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CCX TV helps celebrate our 25th anniversary

Thank you, Eric Nelson of Channel CCX for helping to celebrate our silver anniversary and introducing more people to Friends of the Mississippi River!

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Action alert: It's time. Protect Minnesota's drinking water! [CLOSED]

Speak up for our drinking water by supporting the Groundwater Protection Rule. >>

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What if every MN farm applied fertilizer at the recommended rate?

At best, “perfect” nutrient management on all of Minnesota’s cropland would reduce nitrate pollution by about 10-15 percent, falling far short of the state’s 45 percent reduction goals to protect our groundwater. >>

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Special Places: Wic̣aḣapi, Willowbrook and St. Paul's biggest, most mysterious park

This month we venture to St. Paul's East Side for a trio of riverfront parks home to stunning views, rich history and restored habitat. Check out Wic̣aḣapi, Willowbrook and Pig's Eye Lake. >>

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Native prairie installed by volunteers at Indian Mounds Park
Skinks and pollinators returning to restored prairie

This summer, a new prairie is taking hold at Houlton Conservation Area, and we're excited to report back on its newest residents. >>

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Prairie skink
Painted turtles and pink lotus flowers help keep our waters from turning green

Ever wondered why so many metro lakes turn green in the summer?

For St. Paul's Lake Como and many others, one main reason is nutrients that come from neighborhood lawns and streets. After it rains, fertilizer, leaves and grass clippings are directed into our local lakes, creeks and rivers via storm drains, in turn feeding algae and excessive plant growth. 

At Como, a pair of murals reminds us of this important connection between our yards, streets, lakes and rivers, and celebrates the community in the process. >>

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Storm drain mural contains music and fish to connect it to como park and hands representing our responsibliity to care for the lake

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Upcoming Events

Monday, July 7, 2025 - 6:30pm to 7:30pm
Zoom webinar
April through October
St. Paul
Saturday, July 26, 2025 - 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Hidden Falls Regional Park, St. Paul

Our River Campaign:
It all starts here

At the heart of this new campaign is the vision of a healthy Mississippi River.