Critical Area

Mississippi River Critical Area

Critical Area
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
St. Paul skyline and Mississippi River
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
Paddleboat on river with young angler
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.  >>

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From Ramsey to Ravenna, updated riverfront protections come to life
by Colleen O'Connor Toberman
October 11, 2021

Until recently, the Twin Cities riverfront lacked consistent development standards and environmental protections. After many years of work, FMR is now supporting 25 cities and townships as they finish the final step in a long journey for better riverfront management.  >>

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Climate change, climate justice and FMR's Land Use & Planning program
by Colleen O'Connor Toberman
July 11, 2021

Climate change impacts make park access and greenspace even more important for public health and equity, and guidelines for riverfront development need to respond to the shifting climate in order to protect our river. Here's how our Land Use & Planning program's work intersects with climate change and climate justice.  >>

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MRCCA riverfront protections update: You made a difference!
by Colleen O'Connor Toberman
January 10, 2021

Minneapolis is the first city with a new ordinance to guide riverfront development and protections, and thanks to our collective advocacy, their ordinance includes provisions for migrating birds. Will St. Paul and other communities follow suit?  >>

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Action Alert: Minneapolis needs bird-safe riverfront buildings! [CLOSED]
November 12, 2020

Minneapolis is about to adopt a new Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area ordinance to guide riverfront development for years to come. With your help, we can add a requirement for bird-safe buildings along the river's crucial migratory flyway >>.

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Upcoming Events

Show some love for the river
Saturday, February 11, 2023 - 9:30am to 11:30am
Butter Bakery Cafe, Minneapolis
Let us know if you'd like to help with spring restoration events!
Spring through summer
Throughout the Twin Cities metro area

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