restoration

Growing diversity for climate resiliency in Minneapolis riverfront forests

by Alex Roth

update

May 13, 2020

In a gravel-bed nursery that captures stormwater at the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization’s office, we’re growing tree species predicted to do well as Minnesota's climate warms. These bare-root trees will be ready to plant at our habitat restoration sites this fall, where they’ll strengthen the resiliency of our riverfront canopy. >>

Become a community scientist

by Ellie Rogers

update

April 28, 2020

Scientists sometimes turn to the public to collect observations and data on flora and fauna. If you’re heading outside, why not take note of the wildlife and blooms you see? Here are a few of our favorite projects that call for community scientists. >>

New Pig's Eye Lake islands on the way!

by Alex Roth

update

April 13, 2020

From road work to new buildings, construction projects are a constant for most Twin Cities residents. Soon, a new type of project is coming to St. Paul: seven small islands within Pig's Eye Lake.

We look forward to their benefits for wildlife, reduced erosion and climate change research. >>

Minneapolis 'Parks for All' survey deadline: May 1

by Alex Roth

update

April 1, 2020

Looking for something impactful to do while you’re inside? If you reside in Minneapolis or use Minneapolis parks, consider filling out the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s Parks for All survey. >>

Counting critters at Pine Bend Bluffs, our longest-running restoration

by Karen Schik

update

March 9, 2020

Over the last 20 years at Pine Bend Bluffs, we've converted a buckthorn forest to oak savanna and a Siberian elm canopy to prairie. Now we're monitoring the site to see how wildlife is responding. Read more

The abundant prairie: A William H. Houlton Conservation Area wildlife update

by Alex Roth

update

February 28, 2020

In just its second year, the restoration project at Houlton is yielding impressive wildlife gains: from 16 bumblebees in the first year to 575 now, from 15 kinds of butterflies to 25. These results show progress toward the thriving habitat we hoped to create. >>

Spotting rare, native ladybugs

by Karen Schik

update

February 10, 2020

Lady beetles (also called ladybugs) are one of the most common insects we encounter in summer. They may be the first insects toddlers can identify, easily recognizable because of their bright red color and contrasting black spots. But almost all of the ladybugs you're likely to see aren't native. What happened to our 50 native species? >>