Twin Cities locks and dams

Over the coming years, Twin Citians will face a momentous decision: Should we remove dams on the Mississippi River in Minneapolis and St. Paul?

FMR staff and River Guardians are actively engaged in this issue and others surrounding the locks and dams in the metro area.

An overview of this topic followed by updates are below.

Twin Cities locks and dams
What's going on with Twin Cities locks and dams?

update

January 10, 2022
Learn why we support keeping one lock, but look forward to exploring the potential removal of two local locks and dams, and sign up to receive updates. Read more
Dam photo
ESI Youth Council explores the future of rivers, hydropower and dams

update

October 15, 2026
This year our Environmental Stewardship Institute Youth Council will focus on one of the biggest questions facing the metro Mississippi River: What should we do with our aging locks and dams? Read more
ESI summer program participants stand on the banks of the river looking at the Ford dam
St. Anthony Falls cutoff wall: No immediate threat, advocacy still needed

update

August 17, 2026
An important study of the underwater cutoff wall above St. Anthony Falls is now complete. We know a lot more about its condition and failure risks, but one crucial question remains: Who owns it? Read more
Water roars over St. Anthony Falls.
New study highlights economic benefits of dam removal

update

July 13, 2026
We still have a lot to study and learn about whether dam removal makes sense for the metro Mississippi, but a new report shows us what recreation and tourism could be on a restored river. Read more
A side-by-side showing the current Lower St. Anthony Falls lock and dam next to an illustration of the structure removed.
New FMR study will help answer crucial questions about potential dam removal

update

May 26, 2026
We've known for many years that two locks and dams in Minneapolis and St. Paul might be worth removing. Now, a new FMR study will find out what's possible for the future of the river gorge. Read more
Lock and dam and Minneapolis skyline; Lock and dam near island
Take action: Urge lawmakers to pass environmental funding bills

update

April 29, 2026
More than 150 projects that benefit clean water and the outdoors depend on this funding. Send a message to your legislators, urging them to approve these bills. Read more
Skunk cabbage at Rosemount Preserve
Who owns the St. Anthony Falls cutoff wall? It's still being debated

update

August 13, 2025
The cutoff wall, a vital component of the infrastructure around St. Anthony Falls in Minneapolis, has drawn attention in recent years due to questions about its ownership and maintenance. A study is underway, but it won't resolve everything. Read more
Water flows over Owamniyomni, also known as St. Anthony Falls

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