Fall intern helps map out FMR conservation strategy
FMR has permanently protected 45 sites in the greater metro area since 1993. Our fall 2021 Land Conservation intern, Nick Jacobson, created a tool to help us answer the question of where to focus next. Which lands can we most effectively protect, restore and enhance along the Mississippi River for its wildlife and human communities? >>
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. >>
Climate change, climate justice and FMR's Land Conservation program
Land protection and restoration for ecological diversity can keep urban areas cooler and more resilient in the face of climate change. Learn more about how our Land Conservation program fights climate change and its impacts. >>
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. >>
Cottage Grove seeks community feedback about Mississippi Dunes plan
Last week, 50 community members gathered to discuss opportunities to influence decision-making about the former Mississippi Dunes golf course in Cottage Grove. Here are several ways to speak up in the coming weeks. >>
Star Tribune: 'Habitat or housing?' ... We say both
Ramsey County is grappling with a big question: Is responding to both our climate crisis and affordable housing crisis a zero-sum game? How can we create the housing the Twin Cities needs, while also preserving the homes of other species whose populations are collapsing? >>
Ramsey County considers three properties for redevelopment, conservation
The county is making plans for three properties on the east side of St. Paul: The site of a former juvenile correctional facility on undeveloped bluffland holding Dakota history; a golf course that's home to an endangered bumblebee; and a grassland where prairie birds flock. We've encouraged officials to inventory ecological resources and work with those studying the cultural resources before proceeding with planning. >>
Minneapolis Parks for All plan open for comment
Through July 18, 2021, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is seeking public comment on its draft Parks for All comprehensive plan, which will guide the park board for the next ten years. Review FMR's recommendations for the plan and learn how to submit your own. >>
Partnering for habitat and culture at Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary
This year, FMR is embarking on a new partnership with the Lower Phalen Creek Project, an indigenous-led organization working to engage the community in honoring and caring for natural areas and their sacred and cultural importance. Along with LPCP and St. Paul Parks and Recreation, we're updating an outdated management plan for the Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary to ensure healthy habitat with a special focus on culturally important plant species and restoration techniques that better represent and honor the site's history and its ongoing importance to Dakota people. >>