Lop buckthorn at Pine Bend Bluffs

The Flint Hills Resources-owned property within the Pine Bend Bluffs Natural Area along the Mississippi River is one of the largest and most diverse native ecosystems left in the metro area.

While private, the site has received multiple conservation awards over the years, from Minnesota Environmental Initiative and the Wildlife Habitat Council, and is only accessible to the public for special occasions such as this.

Join us to volunteer during the growing season at the blufflands.

Healthy forest floors and prairies improve local water quality by reducing or absorbing runoff pollution and decreasing erosion. We'll make healthier habitat by lopping invasive buckthorn on sloped terrain. By cutting buckthorn in August, we'll remove the plant's ability to produce energy and build up winter reserves.

This work will be strenuous, but the reward is amazing views of the river. Everyone will be encouraged to work at their own comfort level, and no previous experience is necessary. All tools, supplies and training will be provided.

Ready to register?

Please fill out the registration form below for each individual volunteer attending. Heads up: Due to security restrictions at this unique site, each individual volunteer attending must fill out the registration form below and bring a government-issued photo ID on the day of the event. Additionally, ​​​​only youth aged 16 and up can attend. If you are under 18 and wish to attend without a parent or guardian, please have your parent or guardian complete this permission form before the event.

If you have questions or concerns, contact FMR at volunteer@fmr.org or 651.477.0925.

Can't make it?

To receive notices of future volunteer events, contact us at volunteer@fmr.org. Or, visit our Events Calendar for our most up-to-date listing of upcoming events. To receive a twice-a-month e-newsletter including all FMR activities and news, sign up for Mississippi Messages.