Watershed Protection

Watershed Protection
FMR River Guardians speak up in first round of comments on proposed mine

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This summer, the public had its first opportunity to comment on a proposed nickel-sulfide mine in Tamarack. Hundreds of FMR River Guardians advocated for clean water for current and future generations. What happens next? Read more
Person points toward wetland
Check out our stream health report from 2025 monitoring

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Here's what we found out about water quality by sampling tiny aquatic insects in the Rice Creek watershed last year. Read more
2025 SHEP volunteer at stream training, 18 volunteers and field training instructor stand by water with waders and gear.
Volunteers monitor small insects to gain big insights into water quality

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FMR’s Stream Health Evaluation Program has delivered vital scientific data for nearly two decades. Read more
Person monitors stream
Just released: Stream health report from 2024 monitoring

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Our volunteers' waders are dry. Our biologist has waded through the data. Here's what we found out about water quality by sampling tiny aquatic insects in the Rice Creek watershed last year. Read more
Two SHEP volunteers wade in stream
What tiny aquatic insects can reveal about water quality

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Aquatic macroinvertebrates are living water quality indicators. Meet three that our monitoring volunteers sample — and find out what they might mean about stream health. Read more
Three macroinvertebrate watercolors
FMR urges MPCA to develop long-overdue nitrate standards

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How much nitrate in our surface waters is safe for plants and animals? We don't know, because the MPCA still hasn't established standards. Read more
An MPCA staffer in waders reaches down to get a sample from shallow waters.
FMR now a Water Over Nickel partner

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FMR signs on as a partner to Water Over Nickel to oppose the negative consequences of nickel mining. Read more
Minnesota wetland

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Upcoming Events

Tuesday, September 29, 2026 - 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Along the Vermillion River, Hastings
Apply now for spring through summer program
Sites in Elk River, Hastings or Inver Grove Heights
Wednesday, September 30, 2026 - 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area, Cottage Grove