restoration

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May 6, 2021

Forested limestone bluffs make up the only gorge on the entire length of the Mississippi River as it flows through the heart of the Twin Cities, flanked by beloved recreational parkways. Our restoration projects improve habitat in this urban oasis. Read more

Cedar and spruce shore up the Vermillion River's eroding banks

by Alex Roth

update

April 12, 2021

At Vermillion River Linear Park in Hastings, the cedars we removed from our prairie restoration became the armor of a streambank stabilization project. This revetment not only stops erosion, but will also rebuild the riverbank, creating habitat for trout and other aquatic wildlife. >>

Volunteer spotlight: Randy's dedication at Ole Olson Park

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March 31, 2021

For Randy Miranda, volunteering every week to tend FMR's prairie restoration at Ole Olson Park near his home was a meditative way to give back and get through the pandemic. Here are Randy's reflections on why he volunteers and what we've accomplished together. >>

FMR ecologist coauthors paper on the importance of replanting after buckthorn removal

by Ellie Rogers

update

December 31, 2020

When FMR volunteers remove buckthorn, we're making way for native plants to reestablish critical habitat. In a new research paper, following up by planting native plants seems to show another benefit: Buckthorn has a harder time making a comeback. >>

Minneapolis Parks for All plan open for comment

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

December 23, 2020

Through July 18, 2021, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is seeking public comment on its draft Parks for All comprehensive plan, which will guide the park board for the next ten years. Review FMR's recommendations for the plan and learn how to submit your own. >>

A new federal initiative to restore America's River?

article

December 14, 2020

The Everglades, Chesapeake Bay, the Great Lakes, the Mighty Mississippi — guess which national treasure does not have a federal initiative to protect and restore it? If you guessed the Mississippi, you’re correct. But a new effort has emerged to change that. >>

Invasives got your goat? Here's one way we're bucking buckthorn at Hampton Woods

by Karen Schik

update

December 14, 2020

Entertaining and adorable as they are, goats have found a serious and fitting profession in the ecological management world: consuming as much buckthorn and other invasive woody plants as possible. See how successful our crew was at Hampton Woods and learn more about this increasingly popular restoration method. >>