FMR Updates

Lilydale considers new blufftop development

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

November 11, 2021

A challenging property on Lilydale's river bluffs is the site of a new redevelopment proposal under consideration. Our concern: Will the building disrupt the river's scenery? >>

Thank you, 2021 storm drain stenciling volunteers!

by Ashley O'Neill Prado

November 8, 2021

Thanks to hundreds of volunteers, we exceeded our storm drain stenciling goals for 2021 despite our second season of COVID-19. Together, neighbors, classrooms, sports teams, girl scouts, churches and local businesses stenciled 1,615 storm drains in the Twin Cities and shared 2,529 flyers with community members to spread the word about why it's so important to keep our storm drains clean. >>

Can we make Minnesota's drinking water lead-free?

by Trevor Russell

November 2, 2021

Everyone deserves clean, safe drinking water. Unfortunately, though lead was banned for plumbing in 1986, existing lead pipes remain a threat in Minnesota. FMR is working with our partners to advance three emerging opportunities to fund lead service line replacement. >>

Endangered species found at Maplewood sites under development consideration

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

October 18, 2021

When we learned that Ramsey County was considering developing open space that we believe provides essential habitat, FMR requested a natural resources inventory. The report confirms: Endangered and rare birds depend on this grassland. Read more

Video showcases why habitat corridors are critical

by Alex Roth

October 14, 2021

State announces new pilot program to include climate change in environmental review

by Trevor Russell

October 13, 2021

In September, the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board approved a pilot project that will — for the first time — assess the climate impacts of some of Minnesota’s largest projects. Here’s what this long-overdue decision means for Minnesota’s efforts to address climate impacts on our environment, including the Mississippi River. >>

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. >>