Critical Area

DNR sues Minneapolis over riverfront development rules

February 13, 2024

A riverfront property owner wants to build a home right on the edge of the erosion-prone bluff, breaking the rules Minneapolis adopted to protect the river. But the city approved the plan anyway, setting a concerning precedent. Read more

Rendering of house development on river bluff

What St. Paul's new riverfront rules should include

October 24, 2023

St. Paul's city council will probably vote on a new critical area ordinance this fall or winter. Here are three provisions we'll be looking for in their next draft. Read more

Sunset from Harriet Island over the river.

St. Paul continues to dodge new riverfront development rules

September 25, 2023

St. Paul's promising ordinance has been stalled for months, with no explanation from city leaders. Read more

The downtown St. Paul skyline stretches across the top of the frame, with the river and residential housing in the foreground.

St. Paul's new bird-safe, river-oriented development rules move ahead

January 26, 2023

We think the city's proposed Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area development guidelines are the best we've seen. Read more

River Guardians' impacts in 2022

December 8, 2022

In 2022, 1,225 River Guardians sent 2,974 letters to 166 decision-makers, significantly impacting our work towards a healthier, more resilient river community. Read more

What can cities do to guide development and protect open space?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

December 15, 2021

When we work with community members involved in local development and habitat protection issues, we often hear similar questions: "What can my city leaders do about this issue?" "Does anyone have the power to change this project?" Here's a summary of how cities can shape development and protect open space. >>