Headed to the State Fair? Check out Forever Green and Pollinator Park

August 27 - September 7, 2026
State Fairgrounds, St. Paul

Goldy Gopher at the Forever Green Initiative booth at the state fair. 

If you're headed to Minnesota's annual get-together, consider visiting these key partners for the water and conservation programs at FMR. 

See crops with the power to protect the river

Come talk to Forever Green Initiative researchers about crops such as winter camelina and Kernza that can protect the Mississippi River and Minnesotans' drinking water while benefiting farmers.

FMR staff will also join the researchers on Friday, August 28, noon-6 p.m. to chat about the crops'-to-river connection.

These University of Minnesota researchers are developing and improving winter-hardy annual and perennial crops that protect soil and water while creating new economic opportunities for growers, industry and communities across Minnesota.

Browse the displays of the innovative products being commercialized with these new ingredients, from food to feed to fuel and more. (FMR also does its best to update this list of crackers, beer and other foods and products made of clean-water crops and available in the Twin Cities metro.) 

Forever Green will be in the southwest wing of the Agriculture Horticulture building with other displays and interactive exhibits with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Sciences. 

Check out Pollinator Park

Sign up for emails, and FMR receives a plant to restore habitat

Check out Minnesota Native Plant Landscapes' Pollinator to learn more about native plant options for your yard or grounds. If you sign up for their newsletter, the company, a frequent FMR partner, will donate a plant for an FMR habitat restoration project.

Pollinator Park is on the west side of Underwood St. between Murphy & Lee avenues on the fair grounds.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday, September 29, 2026 - 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Along the Vermillion River, Hastings
Apply now for spring through summer program
Sites in Elk River, Hastings or Inver Grove Heights
Wednesday, September 30, 2026 - 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area, Cottage Grove

Take Me to the River 

Celebrate the Mississippi River and choose your own adventure while supporting FMR at our reimagined fall fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 24.