Come protect the prairies, June 27 and July 11

Volunteers play a key role in the restoration of several prairies being managed and restored by Friends of the Mississippi River.

Did you know just 1 percent of Minnesotas native prairie remains? Prairies are an important part of our natural heritage, and critical for our local wildlife and waters. Come learn about and help restore two high-quality metro-area prairies being managed by FMR staff and volunteers. Join us in the Hastings Sand Coulee, Thursday, June 27th, or the Pine Bend Scientific and Natural Area in Inver Grove Heights, Thursday, July 11th. (Capacity is limited; early registration encouraged and appreciated.)

We should note that these two locations are Scientific and Natural Areas (SNAs). Known for their exceptional natural features and rare resources, SNAs arent your average parks. They are afforded the highest level of protection, and while open to the public, intensive recreational usage is not allowed - meaning there are no paved trails, pavilions or permanent bathrooms (but we provide Port-A-Potties for volunteers!). FMR is the official site steward for three river-related SNAs in the metro region, working in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, landowners, local government agencies and volunteers alike to expand and restore them.

Learn more via the fmr.org calendar listings for the restoration events, both of which are relatively small ecologist-led habitat restoration activities. Join us for the Sand Coulee SNA restoration event in Hastings, Thursday, June 27th and Pine Bend SNA in Inver Grove Heights, Thursday, July 11th.