protection

Meet the loggerhead shrike, the rare butcher bird of FMR-restored prairies

by sue rich

update

August 29, 2019

This small, striking songbird is a fearsome prairie predator. Sadly, it's considered endangered in Minnesota. Read more

A loggerhead shrike perched on the tip of a bare branch, with a grassy field in the background.

River access, wildlife habitat, year-round recreation: Cottage Grove’s unique opportunity

by Betsy Daub

article

May 25, 2019

The City of Cottage Grove has the opportunity to turn an old golf course into open space for wildlife and a recreational park for residents and visitors in an area lacking in river access. Here are our top reasons why we should protect this special place from development. >>

Meet our elusive, big brown trout

article

May 15, 2019

In a cold prairie river just 20 or so minutes south of St. Paul, large brown trout gather in the shadow of red-twig dogwoods, willows and other stream-side plants. Learn more about these wily and beautiful reminders of the importance of protecting our local waters, and how you can help protect them. >>

River access, wildlife habitat, year-round recreation: Cottage Grove’s unique opportunity

by Betsy Daub

update

May 7, 2019

The City of Cottage Grove has the opportunity to turn an old golf course into open space for wildlife and a recreational park for residents and visitors in an area lacking in river access. Here are our top reasons why we should protect this special place from development. >>

Minnesota’s coveted native orchids

by Karen Schik

update

March 6, 2019

Though we certainly don’t live in a tropical climate, Minnesota is home to almost 50 native orchids. Read more

A rare opportunity to protect 150+ acres on the main stem of the Mississippi

article

January 4, 2019

FMR is leading the charge to acquire and restore a once-manicured golf course in Washington County. Learn more about this opportunity and our hope to transform the former golf fairways and putting greens back to their natural state. >>

A view of the Mississippi River looking across to Lower Grey Cloud Island from the former site of Mississippi Dunes Golf Links.

River Heights Park saved, restoration begins!

article

September 19, 2018

After hearing from dozens of community members (including many FMR River Guardians), the Inver Grove Heights city council unanimously voted to save River Heights Park on Monday, May 14.

The council had been considering carving up and selling the 7.5-acre undeveloped natural area as three 2.5-acre lots for housing developers. Instead, the city, FMR and neighbors are going to work together to make the park more accessible — adding a park sign and bench, with details to be determined — while keeping it a natural area and restoring important bird habitat. >>