Land Use & Planning

Agencies and community members push back against river mining proposal in Cottage Grove

update

November 6, 2025

A mining company wants to dig for materials beneath the Mississippi River in Cottage Grove. WCCO interviewed FMR's Colleen O'Connor Toberman about pushback from neighbors and government agencies. Read more

Ford Area C: The overlooked toxic waste dump along the river

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

October 12, 2025

Did you know that Ford Motor Company owns a hazardous waste dump right on the river's edge in the middle of St. Paul? FMR has been a longtime advocate for cleaning up this site. Join us to take action. Read more

What's going on with Twin Cities locks and dams?

update

January 10, 2022

Learn why we support keeping one lock, but look forward to exploring the potential removal of two local locks and dams, and sign up to receive updates. Read more

Changing climate, changing river

page

January 10, 2022

How will climate change affect our river, and what can we do about it? Read more

Cottage Grove allows riverbed mine proposal to advance

update

November 6, 2025

The Cottage Grove City Council recently approved the environmental review for a riverbed mine next to Lower Grey Cloud Island. FMR and many others still believe that this mine would have major negative impacts — and it might not be legal. Read more

Mississippi River as seen from Pine Bend Bluffs

How the metro riverfront gained strong, cohesive protections

update

October 27, 2025

The story of one of the most far-reaching accomplishments for the river since FMR’s founding: riverfront rules all along the metro Mississippi to protect its scenic, cultural and ecological value. Read more