planning

How we choose sites to protect and restore

update

September 1, 2022

Our Land Conservation program has protected and restored more than three dozen sites near the metro Mississippi River. Here's how we decide where to focus our efforts. Read more

FMR, partners issue Minneapolis 2040 support statement

update

July 21, 2022

In response to the lawsuit challenging the Minneapolis 2040 plan on the basis of potential environmental harm, FMR coordinated a sign-on statement from several leading environmental and planning organizations. The statement reaffirms our support for the 2040 plan's goals and environmental benefits. >>

Can St. Paul's River Learning Center project get back on track?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

July 7, 2022

We've long supported the goal of creating a River Learning Center in St. Paul's Crosby Farm Regional Park. Recent design concepts for the center, however, seemed to disregard community input and riverfront development regulations. Here's how we've responded and what we hope to see happen next. >>

St. Paul riverfront roundup: Five projects to watch

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

April 11, 2022

St. Paul has a lot of projects in the works along its 26 miles of Mississippi River shoreline. Check out the plans for new visitor and cultural centers, recreational improvements and more that will celebrate and improve St. Paul's connection to the river. >>

An update on the future of St. Anthony Falls

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

February 4, 2022

There's a lot happening around St. Anthony Falls. Here's the latest on the Army Corps' disposition study, upcoming events about the future of the lock area, and that mysterious underwater wall. >>

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. >>

Mississippi Dunes: Cottage Grove's great missed opportunity

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

December 15, 2021

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. >>