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

A new tool in our toolbox for buckthorn control: Critical period cutting

update

August 7, 2023

We're always looking for new and better ways to keep buckthorn from becoming dominant in our woodlands and forests. A new method we're trying in the Gorge shows promise and doesn't require power tools or herbicides. Read more

Volunteers work on buckthorn removal by the river

FMR pollinator research and habitat projects receive state funds

update

May 23, 2023

The Minnesota Legislature passed bills that include five FMR restoration and enhancement projects and our three-year research project on best practices for pollinator habitat management. Read more

Lawmakers approve $1M to shed light on St. Anthony Falls’ hidden hazard, the cutoff wall

update

May 23, 2023

We'll soon know a lot more about one of the state's most crucial, but overlooked, pieces of infrastructure: the hidden cutoff wall underneath St. Anthony Falls. Read more

St. Anthony Falls during spring high waters

What our spring flood means for Ford Area C

update

May 15, 2023

We've been waiting for a river flood to gather more information about the hazards posted by Ford Motor Company's floodplain dumpsite in St. Paul, known as Area C. This year, we'll have new data (and a special tour for our River Guardians). Read more

Got scat? The next phase of the coyote and fox project

by Alex Roth

update

March 19, 2023

How are wild canids adapting to urban areas? FMR supporters have been helping researchers find out. Hear about how to get involved in two new community science initiatives with the Twin Cities Coyote and Fox Project. Read more

Coyote standing atop inactive railroad tracks.

More hope for long-term buckthorn control

update

December 12, 2022

New research shows that seeding and planting after buckthorn removal can help keep future buckthorn growth at bay. But not all plantings are created equal. Read more about FMR Conservation Director Alex Roth's latest research. Read more

FMR ecologists and interns monitor invasive honeysuckle removal plots.

Fishing for fishers: FMR supports a new study

update

October 11, 2022

Why is the fisher expanding its range to the southern part of the state, including the Twin Cities? Why is its population declining? FMR is partnering on a University of Minnesota study of this elusive member of the weasel family to help find out. Read more