Land Conservation

Land Conservation
A new tool in our toolbox for buckthorn control: Critical period cutting

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August 7, 2023
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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July 25, 2023
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
Riverside Park in St. Paul Park

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May 30, 2023
Located along the backwaters of the Mississippi River, this 14-acre park hosts an array of native woodland plants and serves as an oasis along the Mississippi River flyway for migratory birds. Read more
Limestone edge along river
How FMR's priorities for the Mississippi River fared in the 2023 session

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May 25, 2023
FMR made progress on every single one of its priorities this legislative session. Here's a roundup of everything that happened. Read more
A collage showing parts of five different photos, all from this legislative session: Two FMR staffers posing with fish postcards in the Capitol; an FMR staffer testifying at a May 1 hearing; A state senator posing with children following a hearing; legislators on a tour at the Forever Green Initiative facilities; printed papers with the FMR logo, shown with the Capitol building in the background.
FMR pollinator research and habitat projects receive state funds

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May 23, 2023
The Minnesota Legislature passed bills that include five FMR restoration and enhancement projects and our three-year research project on best practices for pollinator habitat management. Read more
Native plants and bee + text "#MNLEG Final Update"
Must-see FMR spring birding sites along the river

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April 15, 2023
Enjoy the wonder of spring migration season with a visit to some of FMR's top Mississippi River flyway restoration sites. Read more
A singing common yellowthroat grips a thorny branch.
Where FMR's 2023 priorities stand at the Legislature

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April 14, 2023
An overview of the progress we've made — and what still needs to happen — as we enter the final weeks of the session. Read more
Looking up at the iconic dome of the Capitol building in St. Paul, against a clear blue sky as backdrop. Text over the image says "FMR's priorities #MNLEG"

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Upcoming Events

A toast to FMR: Wabasha's 'Neighbor on Tap'
Throughout August 2025
Wabasha Taproom, St. Paul
Plants, pollinators and pints: Native plant gardening with nature educator Angie Hong [WAITLIST]
Thursday, September 4, 2025 - 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative, Minneapolis
Partner event: Longfellow River Gorge Festival
Sunday, September 7, 2025 - 12:00pm to 4:00pm
34th to 36th Streets & West River Parkway Minneapolis

See all Upcoming Events