Climate Change

What does our changing climate mean for the Mississippi River? And how is FMR working to curb emissions and create a more resilient river? Check out our latest updates on climate change and what we can do about it.

Climate Change
A bad idea that won't go away: Diverting the river

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Despite its high environmental and economic costs, the literal "pipe dream" of diverting water from the Mississippi River to Arizona, Colorado and other dry states won't disappear. Read more
Outline of U.S. with Mississippi River, plus a pipeline splitting off the river to the Southwest
Minnesota's drought contributes to drinking water crisis downriver

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In this Q&A, Matt Rota at Healthy Gulf in Louisiana talks with FMR about the saltwater intrusion in the Mississippi River threatening New Orleans' drinking water supply — and already impacting communities farther south. Read more
Army Corps boats construct a sill to prevent saltwater intrusion
Reflections on the recent youth & climate change ruling

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A landmark decision for the first constitutional climate trial in the U.S. is about more than climate change. It's about considering the full impact of our actions today, and the power youth have to fight climate change in the courts — and win. Read more
Two young people hold a sign in the river gorge that reads "Protect our future"
Is the Minneapolis 2040 plan good for the environment? Yes.

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The plan's many environmental policies, including denser housing, are crucial responses to climate change. Here's why. Read more
The Minneapolis skyline, reflective against the orange evening sky with the Mississippi River in the foreground.
FMR tapped to help craft clean transportation recommendations

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The newly announced working group will deliver Clean Transportation Standard recommendations to legislators early next year. Read more
A driver at a hydrogen fueling station, filling up her fuel cell vehicle. She is holding a pump that appears similar to a traditional gas station.
River Guardians' impacts in 2022

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In 2022, 1,225 River Guardians sent 2,974 letters to 166 decision-makers, significantly impacting our work towards a healthier, more resilient river community. Read more
Paddleboat on river with young angler
Fall drought in MN, record low Mississippi River down south

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Months of drought have reduced the Mighty Mississippi to a shallow trickle in its southern stretch. Read more
Minnehaha Falls as a trickle

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Upcoming Events

Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Large oak forest in Hampton, Dakota County
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - 6:30pm
Dual Citizen Brewing Company, St. Paul
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
South Branch of the Vermillion River Aquatic Management Area, Hastings