Critical Area

Critical Area
What St. Paul's new riverfront rules should include

update

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

update

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

update

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

update

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

update

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

update

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

update

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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Upcoming Events

Our River fall event: Meander on the Mississippi [WAITLIST]
Saturday, September 27, 2025 - 10:30am to 1:00pm OR 2:30pm to 5:00pm
Magnolia Blossom Paddle Boat, St. Paul
Lop sumac at Grey Cloud Dunes SNA [WAITLIST]
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 - 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area, Cottage Grove
Pine Bend Bluffs brush haul + lunch
Saturday, October 4, 2025 - 9:00am to 12:00pm
Pine Bend Bluffs Natural Area at the Flint Hills Resources property, Inver Grove Heights

See all Upcoming Events