Research

Friends of the Mississippi River values evidence-based approaches to restoration, water quality solutions and more. Check out this overview of FMR's research and reports, and explore updates on the results of our studies and their impacts below.

Research
Watch: FMR's Dr. Julia Leone presents at BeeCon 2024

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November 5, 2024
Julia spoke about preliminary findings from bumble bee, flower and vegetation surveys conducted at FMR sites. Read more
A bee on blazingstar, with an inset photo og Dr. Julia Leone.
FMR becoming a powerhouse for pollinator protection

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August 1, 2024
Two new FMR initiatives are big wins for pollinator protection and research. With good questions and better data to answer them, we can find out what more we can do to make the best possible habitat for pollinators and wildlife. Read more
Rusty-patched bumble bee on liatris
How (and when) to use the critical period cutting method to remove invasive buckthorn

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June 13, 2024
Step-by-step instructions for removing large buckthorn using this new, herbicide-free method. Read more
Person lops branches off of buckthorn stump
Can pockets of habitat tip the scales in degraded wetlands?

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January 25, 2024
Invasive reed canary grass forms dense monocultures in many wetlands across the Upper Midwest, but we're experimenting with ways to give native wetland plants a better foothold. Read more
Vermillion River flows through reed canary grass
Just released: Read the landmark new report 'Putting Down Roots'

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January 19, 2024
The report, which measures the environmental impact of crops that provide continuous living cover, was produced by FMR, Ecotone Analytics and the Forever Green Partnership. Read more
A hand prods at the bare dirt, prepping for a seed planting. Text says "Putting Down Roots: Analyzing the economic and environmental benefits of continuous living cover for MN’s farmers, water and climate"
More than 3,000 pollinators — and other interesting findings from our 2023 monitoring

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January 9, 2024
How much more often did pollinators visit native flowers than non-native flowers? And why are cuckoo bees a good sign? Find out more about our 2023 pollinator surveys, plus new opportunities to get involved in monitoring efforts. Read more
Annika, Julia, a monarch, black and gold bumble bee, red-belted bumble bee
How we're filling in research gaps for the lock and dam study

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November 13, 2023
FMR and our partners are bringing together researchers to dig into crucial questions that the official Army Corps lock and dam disposition study won't be able to answer. Here's what we're focusing on and why. Read more
Four people talk on a boat on the river

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Upcoming Events

Join us at the annual river gorge Earth Day cleanup
Saturday, April 18, 2026 - 9:30am to 12:00pm
West River Parkway and 36th Street/44th Street, Minneapolis
One Day, One Earth, One Minnesota: Earth Day Collaborative fundraiser
April 1 through April 22, 2026
Online
Remove garlic mustard at Hampton Woods Wildlife Management Area [WAITLIST]
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Large oak forest in Hampton, Dakota County

See all Upcoming Events