A field of showy golden flowers is a common site in late summer, but is goldenrod to blame for our allergies?
Each year, we get questions about whether goldenrod is contributing to our late-summer allergies. The short answer: Most likely not, it's actually ragweed that's to blame.
In fact, goldenrod plays a role in habitat restoration and is sometimes planted by FMR ecologists. >>
Enjoy poetry from renowned local artist Bao Phi (above) at this year's "Evening Celebrating the River." (Photo by Anna Min)
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. >>
The contrasting colors or purple blazing star and yellow goldenrod are eye-candy for both humans and bees.
A prairie for every season and (metro) location! We list a few of our favorite prairie sites from Elk River to Hastings, including both restored prairies and native remnants. Some of our favorite finds at each site are listed, and a good time to visit. >>
SuperVolunteers Allan and Stacy show off their true colors in front of the river.
If you've been to an FMR event, you've likely encountered a SuperVolunteer proudly clad in their identifying T-shirt. To join their ranks, volunteers need to participate in four or more hands-on restoration events (or contribute 20+ hours) throughout the year.
There are plenty of upcoming events in need of helping hands for you to earn 2018 SuperVolunteer status!
Thank you, Eric Nelson of Channel CCX for helping to celebrate our silver anniversary and introducing more people to Friends of the Mississippi River!
We're thrilled to share this beautiful feature of FMR's Write to the River project from the Open Rivers Journal of the River Life Institute.
Coordinator Leslie Thomas shares the inspiration for using words and images to deepen relationships with the Mississippi, along with a selection of writing and author interviews. We hope you enjoy it! >>
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. >>
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 Indian Mounds Park, Willowbrook and Pig's Eye Lake. >>
Prairie skinks, like this one from northern Iowa, are the newest species to be recorded at Houlton Conservation Area. (Photo from Iowaherps.com.)
This summer, a new prairie is taking hold at Houlton Conservation Area, and we're excited to report back on its newest residents. >>
You can now visit these colorful, water quality-themed mural at Como Lake! This mural is the second design by community members to decorate Como Lake's shores.
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. >>