Help restore Pine Bend Bluffs Natural Area, brush haul + celebration [FULL]

Join Friends of the Mississippi River, Flint Hills Resources and Great River Greening as we return to the Flint Hills property within the Pine Bend Bluffs Natural Area along the Mississippi River —— one of the largest and most diverse native ecosystems left in the metro area. The site is only accessible to the public for special occasions such as this annual restoration and celebration event on Saturday, October 15, 9 a.m.-noon.

Working with FMR and Great River Greening ecologists and staff, volunteers will help protect these native plant communities by removing invasive species, primarily— helping to stack pre-cut buckthorn brush, —and assisting with other restoration tasks as needed. Everyone will be encouraged to work at their own comfort level and no previous experience is necessary. All tools and supplies will be provided, —including coffee, morning snacks and a hot lunch to conclude the event!—

This award-winning restoration project includes a sand-gravel prairie, oak savanna and oak forest plant communities. Healthy forest floors and prairies improve the health of our local waters by reducing or absorbing runoff pollution and decreasing erosion. This site is also an important part of the Mississippi River migratory bird flyway,— host to 40 percent of North American waterfowl and millions of migratory songbirds annually. Many of those birds — as well as bees, butterflies and our local wildlife — depend upon the native prairie, savanna and forest plants for their survival, especially under the stress of increasing average temperatures. 

The location is roughly 25 minutes south of Minneapolis/St. Paul and 15 minutes west of Hastings. All registrants will be emailed directions to the meeting spot along with all other event basics. 

This event is full! If you have any questions please contact the Outreach assistant Linda Moua at lmoua@fmr.org or 651-222-2193 x17