Critical Area

A natural, cultural and historic wonder, the Mississippi River defines and shapes our metro area. Because of its importance, the 72-mile stretch through the Twin Cities is recognized as a national park unit and a state critical area.

Along with those designations came some protections, but Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) knew we could do better. Starting in 2007, FMR pushed alongside communities and policymakers for stronger, more protective riverfront rules for the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area.

By the end of 2025, all 25 river cities and townships in the Twin Cities metro had adopted clearer, science-based regulations for riverfront development through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' critical area program. Learn more about what this accomplishment means for the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities and read the latest updates below.

Critical Area

What St. Paul's new riverfront rules should include

update

October 24, 2023

St. Paul's city council will probably vote on a new critical area ordinance this fall or winter. Here are three provisions we'll be looking for in their next draft. Read more

Sunset from Harriet Island over the river.

St. Paul continues to dodge new riverfront development rules

update

September 25, 2023

St. Paul's promising ordinance has been stalled for months, with no explanation from city leaders. Read more

The downtown St. Paul skyline stretches across the top of the frame, with the river and residential housing in the foreground.

St. Paul's new bird-safe, river-oriented development rules move ahead

update

January 26, 2023

We think the city's proposed Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area development guidelines are the best we've seen. Read more

River Guardians' impacts in 2022

update

December 8, 2022

In 2022, 1,225 River Guardians sent 2,974 letters to 166 decision-makers, significantly impacting our work towards a healthier, more resilient river community. Read more

What can cities do to guide development and protect open space?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

December 15, 2021

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. >>

From Ramsey to Ravenna, updated riverfront protections come to life

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

October 11, 2021

Until recently, the Twin Cities riverfront lacked consistent development standards and environmental protections. After many years of work, FMR is now supporting 25 cities and townships as they finish the final step in a long journey for better riverfront management. >>

Climate change, climate justice and FMR's Land Use & Planning program

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

July 11, 2021

Climate change impacts make park access and greenspace even more important for public health and equity, and guidelines for riverfront development need to respond to the shifting climate in order to protect our river. Here's how our Land Use & Planning program's work intersects with climate change and climate justice. >>