Critical Area

Critical Area
How the metro riverfront gained strong, cohesive protections

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The story of one of the most far-reaching accomplishments for the river since FMR’s founding: riverfront rules all along the metro Mississippi to protect its scenic, cultural and ecological value. Read more
Robinson's Rocks on the river
St. Paul closes in on final river rules

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After years of delays, the St. Paul City Council is poised to vote on a Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area ordinance to guide riverfront development. Residents can join FMR in advocating for the addition of a bird-safe glass requirement. Read more
Downtown St. Paul riverfront
Community meeting and Q&A with St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter

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Join us for a town hall-style community meeting, featuring a brief statement from Mayor Carter followed by a Q&A. Read more
Mayor Carter in front of the St. Paul skyline
There's still time to push for stronger river protections in St. Paul

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St. Paul residents are speaking up about a proposal to water down riverfront development regulations. Read more
St. Paul skyline with river
St. Paul's riverfront: Weakened rules, troubling development plans and 2 toxic dumps

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This flood of St. Paul river issues means FMR and community members have opportunities to push for stronger riverfront protections, walkable access to the river in line with community plans and quality cleanups for two toxic riverside dumps. Read more
Trees over river
Speak up for strong riverfront rules in St. Paul

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St. Paul's long-awaited Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area ordinance is finally coming up for public comment. Unfortunately, the updated draft removes bird-safe building requirements and other vital riverfront protections. Here's how to help. Read more
Birds fly over Harrient Island and river
Judge tells Minneapolis to comply with its riverfront development rules

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In 2024, the city of Minneapolis approved a request to build a home on the edge of an erosion-prone riverfront bluff. Now a judge has stepped in, preventing the construction and a bad precedent. Read more
Rendering of house development on river bluff

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Upcoming Events

November 1 - 20, 2025
Online
Three options: October 20, October 28, November 22, 2025
Hidden Falls Regional Park, St. Paul
Thursday, December 4, 2025 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
F-O-K Studios, St. Paul