Mississippi River News

River drawdown offers a look back in time... and a glimpse of the future?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

October 7, 2020

What did the Mississippi River look like before the locks and dams? For a few days, we got a glimpse near St. Anthony Falls of what a less-encumbered Mississippi might look like if locks and dams are removed. Check out our photos. >>

Public comment sought for new Pig's Eye islands

by Alex Roth

update

September 4, 2020

The Star Tribune recently covered the island-building project at Pig's Eye Lake in East Side St. Paul's riverfront park. As our executive director Whitney Clark stated in the article, FMR supports the project overall, and would also like to see project planners "really consider including climate-adaptive species and use this opportunity to understand more about habitat restoration in the era of climate change." >>

Dead zone 2020: The good, the bad and the algae

by Peter LaFontaine

update

August 5, 2020

A smaller-than-average Gulf of Mexico dead zone is cause for celebration — isn't it? >>

Study: human-made pollutants in remote, undeveloped lakes?

by Trevor Russell

update

July 7, 2020

A recent story from Minnesota Public Radio shines a light on some unexpected (and unnerving) new findings. Even in Minnesota’s relatively remote and pristine lakes, researchers are finding human-made contaminants of concern. >>

Dust in the wind (spreads toxic algae)

by Peter LaFontaine

update

July 4, 2020

Pristine lakes in remote parts of Minnesota — and around the country — are beginning to suffer from blooms of toxic algae, and scientists are piecing together a troubling answer as to why. >>

Minneapolis park board cuts ties with Minneapolis Police

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

June 3, 2020

In recognition of our commitment to public spaces that are safe and welcoming to all, we applaud the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board's recent decisions to reduce its relationship with the Minneapolis Police Department. Read more, including our letter of support. >>

Potato fiasco turns even more rotten

by Peter LaFontaine

update

June 2, 2020

According to new disclosures, an enormous scofflaw corporation is trying to skirt basic environmental regulations in order to make billions on ... potatoes. >>