What can cities do to guide development and protect open space?
When we work with community members involved in local development and habitat protection issues, we often hear similar questions: "What can my city leaders do about this issue?" "Does anyone have the power to change this project?" Here's a summary of how cities can shape development and protect open space. >>
Mississippi Dunes: Cottage Grove's great missed opportunity
The Cottage Grove City Council recently approved a plan for the former Mississippi Dunes golf course. While the plan includes a modest riverfront park, many residents hoped for more. >>
River Guardians' impact in 2021
Watch the thank-you video we recorded (complete with outtakes at the end) to celebrate the successes of our River Guardians. These advocates took action in 2021 to champion a federal funding program to protect the Mississippi, advocate for more parkland in Cottage Grove and protect Minneapolis' drinking water. >>
Dam removal brings "river giants" back to Minnesota waterways
A recent Star Tribune article celebrated the return of paddlefish, sturgeon and other river species as a result of dam removal projects across the state. Could this kind of restoration be possible for the metro Mississippi? >>
Lilydale considers new blufftop development
A challenging property on Lilydale's river bluffs is the site of a new redevelopment proposal under consideration. Our concern: Will the building disrupt the river's scenery? >>
Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment plan faces first lawsuit
The Minneapolis City Council recently approved the controversial Upper Harbor Terminal redevelopment plan for the North Minneapolis riverfront. Community members have filed a lawsuit alleging that the project's environmental review was inadequate (and we agree). >>
Mississippi Dunes community meeting speaker workshop
Join us for an info session about making public comments at community meetings. Then speak up at a Cottage Grove meeting in the next few weeks to share your opinion on the Mississippi Dunes master plan.
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Mississippi Dunes moment of action [CLOSED]
In December, the Cottage Grove city council will be voting on a master plan for the former Mississippi Dunes golf course on the Mississippi riverfront. Take a moment to submit your comments on the plan and learn how to stay involved >>
Quick tips for speaking at a public meeting
City and township leaders sometimes listen to people who show up to speak at meetings more than they listen to other input. It's an important way to influence your local community. Here are our tips about what to expect at a public meeting and how to prepare. >>
Endangered species found at Maplewood sites under development consideration
When we learned that Ramsey County was considering developing open space that we believe provides essential habitat, FMR requested a natural resources inventory. The final report confirms: Endangered and rare birds depend on this grassland for their survival. >>