Land Conservation

Land Conservation
Carver Preserve

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At a protected Maplewood neighborhood preserve on the east side of the river, we're bringing woodland and prairie habitats back to life with the help of a robust remnant seed bank.  Read more
Field with golden trees
Applewood Preserve

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An old pasture and orchard turned neighborhood preserve holds nearly 30 acres of oak forest, prairie and woodland pond for wildlife in Maplewood. Read more
Apple trees in field against birch
Nectar and ... blood? A surprising source of nutrients for butterflies

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Our new pollinator biologist explains the phenomenon of butterfly puddling — sometimes on blood — and how we can make sure these insects get the nutrients and energy they need. Read more
Senior Ecologist Karen Schik retires after 23 years with FMR

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FMR's senior ecologist Karen Schik's hard work helped protect and restore thousands of acres of important river habitat while strengthening community connections. Thank you, Karen! Read more
Karen Schik, smiling for the camera in front of the Mississippi River.
Thank you, summer 2023 interns!

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Our summer interns supported FMR's conservation and education work, from bird, plant and monarch surveys to summer youth program facilitation. Here are their reflections and highlights. Read more
Annika in prairie, Ivy working on art, Riya by flowers, Brandon ice fishing, Holly in autumn woods
A new tool in our toolbox for buckthorn control: Critical period cutting

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We're always looking for new and better ways to keep buckthorn from becoming dominant in our woodlands and forests. A new method we're trying in the Gorge shows promise and doesn't require power tools or herbicides. Read more
Volunteers work on buckthorn removal by the river
Settler's Island

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In the Grey Cloud channel on a 3-acre island once thick with buckthorn, we're planting climate-adapted trees and native understory plants, increasing habitat resilience amidst climate change. You can visit via kayak or canoe! Read more
Volunteers with canoes on island

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Upcoming Events

Saturday, July 26, 2025 - 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Hidden Falls Regional Park, St. Paul
Thursday, July 31, 2025 - 5:00pm to 8:30pm
Gibbs Farm, St. Paul
Tuesday, August 5 OR Thursday, September 4, 2025 - 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative, Minneapolis