FMR Updates

The green amidst the gray: the distinctive phenology of non-native shrubs

by Alex Roth

article

November 9, 2015

It’s finally (or already!) November and the leaves have fallen from the trees. Well, not quite all of them. If you take a close look at a nearby forest, you’ll likely notice a dense layer of green still present in the shrub layer. What are these shrubs and why are they still green when other species have all dropped their leaves? In and around the Twin Cities, it’s a good bet that these shrubs are either common buckthorn or one of a few species of bush honeysuckles, and their “distinctive phenology” actually plays a large part in their success in Minnesota’s forest ecosystems.

A layer of green on an otherwise gray and brown backdrop is evidence of buckthorn’s distinctive phenology.

How will Minnesota implement the new buffer law?

by Trevor Russell

article

October 12, 2015

One of FMR's top priorities during this year's legislative session was passage of Governor Dayton's much-discussed Buffer Initiative. While a substantially revised (and watered-down) version of Governor Dayton's proposal did become law, implementation of the law will be critical to its success.

Buffers of perennial vegetation help protect Minnesota's land, water, and wildlife

St. Paul reveals exciting plans for river balcony park

by Alicia Uzarek

article

October 12, 2015

Saint Paul River Balcony rendering from the Great River Passage Plan

New FMR film about our local national park — Watch the trailer and sign up for the premiere!

by Whitney Clark

article

October 8, 2015

by Alicia Uzarek

article

September 11, 2015

The U.S. EPA’s Clean Water Rule, an update to the Clean Water Act of 1972, went into effect on August 28, 2015. Before the rule was finalized, North Dakota led 13 states in challenging the legality of the rule, exempting them from the rule until the courts make a decision. Now others are questioning whether enforcement of the rule in all states should halt while the courts decide its legality.

Crown Hydro is trying (again) to renew 16-year old hydroelectric license

by Irene Jones

article

September 10, 2015

In spite of numerous yet unsuccessful attempts to build a hydroelectric power plant at St. Anthony Falls, Crown Hydro LLC is giving it another try. Their most recent proposal is not garnering much support, however, and many folks—including the City of Minneapolis and the National Park Service are saying it’s time for Crown to go back to the drawing board.

Governor Dayton establishes new MPCA advisory committee

by Trevor Russell

article

August 17, 2015

Earlier this month, Governor Mark Dayton signed an executive order creating a Governor's Committee to Advise the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). While the new group, which will consist of eight members plus the MPCA Commissioner, won't have the same authority as the recently abolished MPCA Citizens Board, the committee creates an important a forum for public input on environmental decision-making by the agency.