restoration

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

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. >>

Fisher spotted at FMR restoration site

by Karen Schik

April 21, 2019

One member of the weasel family, the fisher, is more commonly a denizen of Minnesota's north woods than our metro woodlands. Finding a fisher recently at Spring Lake Park Reserve in Dakota County was a rare treat. >>

Minnesota’s coveted native orchids

by Karen Schik

March 6, 2019

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

Art from invasives: An interview with Kim and Emily

by Ellie Rogers

February 26, 2019

FMR volunteers Kimberly Boustead and Emily Sauer remove buckthorn, garlic mustard and more at our stewardship events. And they also use their creativity to spread awareness about how to stop the spread of invasive species. Read more about their favorite river spots, buckthorn berry ink and a new spin on the muscle tee. >>

Bird surveys reveal steady increases at FMR prairie restorations

by Karen Schik

December 7, 2018

Our land conservation team not only restores habitat, but monitors that habitat for wildlife data. After years of conducting breeding bird surveys at our prairie restoration sites, we can now see clear trends in increased number of species, especially species of greatest conservation need. >>

Habitat in the city: the power of the single yard

by Betsy Daub

November 6, 2018

Native plants are for the birds! A recent study shows chickadee populations decline in residential yards filled with non-native plants, meaning even your backyard can provide crucial habitat. >>