Save River Heights Park... again.
Part of our local national park — River Heights Park in Inver Grove Heights — is being considered for disposal by the city.
Just eight months ago, FMR teamed up with neighbors to help save River Heights Park in Inver Grove Heights.
Now the park is on the chopping block once again. And the neighbors and FMR are back in action. >>
Introducing the FMR Conservation Map!
Although our policy and advocacy work tends to make the most headlines, many FMR supporters, members and volunteers highly value the natural areas we protect, restore and enhance throughout the metro area. But even the longest-standing FMR members and volunteers wonder where, exactly, we work.
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way for folks to see all of FMR’s 37 active restoration sites in one place? Perhaps some kind of…map? >>
What's the best way to control buckthorn and protect native plants? FMR investigates.
We set up a new research project in Hampton Woods (top left) to control buckthorn (top right) and see how different methods (such as the forestry mower, bottom right) best protect and encourage native plants (like the yellow ladyslipper, bottom left).
What pops to mind when you think of restoring a forest? Perhaps people planting trees? ...How about bobcat-like machines busily eating up small trees and spitting out the splinters?
If you'd visited Hampton Woods this spring, this is exactly the scene you would have come across. The machines were forestry mowers, consuming invasive European buckthorn.
Not only were the mowers benefiting the long-term health of the forest, but they're part of a new FMR research project to compare and contrast the effectiveness of different methods to both control buckthorn and support the growth of native plants and habitat. >>
Get outside with FMR!
Super Volunteers Stacy and Allan. Photo by Anna Botz for FMR.
Believe it or not, March 20th marks the first day of spring! That means we're ramping up for event season and we've got plenty of opportunities for you to get your hands dirty with FMR. Join us to protect and restore local natural areas or rally for the river! >>
A warm goodbye to longtime office manager Michele Bevis!
Whether helping paddlers come in to shore or aiding staff befuddled by new printers, office manager Michele Bevis was there with a steadfast and most welcome hand. Bon voyage, MB!
While FMR is known for our work at the Capitol and in the communities, forests and prairies along the river, we'd be lost without a strong home base. And that's exactly what Michele Bevis, our office manager, has provided for over 10 years.
So it is with deep gratitude that we say goodbye to Michele as she embarks on her next phase: one relaxing yet adventurous retirement. >>
A new environmental learning center at Watergate Marina?
If all goes well at the state Capitol this session, the City of Saint Paul could begin designing a new environmental learning center on the river at Watergate Marina as early as July. >>
The results are in! Highlights from FMR's 2018 member survey
FMR's 2018 Member Survey results are in — check out the highlights! Thank you to the nearly 300 members who completed the survey. We'll use your ideas and input to shape our work in the years ahead.
See the survey results. Or, if you're not one already, become an FMR member.
Environmental groups release statement on draft groundwater protection rule
FMR joined eight other conservation organizations in a statement on the state's proposed groundwater protection rule. >>
Special Places: The Central Mpls. riverfront
Downtown Minneapolis glows above the Mississippi at the end of the Stone Arch Bridge.
To celebrate our 25th year, each month in 2018 FMR staff will profile places along the metro Mississippi River that are near and dear to us, places that connect to FMR but that we also enjoy in our own downtime. By the end of our silver year, we'll have built a map of 25 special river places for you and yours to learn about, visit and enjoy.
This month: Minneapolis’ Central riverfront.
Venture along with us to a few downtown Minneapolis riverfront icons — Nicollet Island, the Stone Arch Bridge and the Mill District. Many of you have been here before, but along the way, we'll be sure to point out lesser-known spots and facts and the scoop on changes to come. >>
Position announcement: Seasonal Outreach Assistant [Filled]
FMR is searching for a detail-oriented person to join our events and outreach team. This seasonal opportunity is a great way to gain valuable experience assisting with outreach communications and volunteer recruitment. >>