Thank you for joining us for Take Me to the River

On Sept. 24, over 240 attendees came together at Nicollet Island Pavilion for An Evening Celebrating the Mississippi River: Take Me to the River. Guests did not let the rainy weather dampen their spirits as they gathered with a community that cares for the river. The evening included hands-on activities focused on FMR’s four program areas, a live auction and a short presentation.

The event raised nearly $200,000 to support the river and the communities it sustains. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who participated in our live auction, donated to Friends of the Mississippi River, or pledged to purchase 1,000 square feet of native pollinator seed mix. Your support makes our work possible!

Program highlights

Our program allowed guests to experience FMR's program areas firsthand. Here's a recap of each choose-your-own-adventure, in case you missed it.

Make Your Mark: Art & Advocacy for the River

Our Stewardship & Education team shared how they help people build a relationship with the Mississippi River and provide meaningful ways to act on that relationship. Local artists Kim Boustead and Robin Stumbo offered opportunities to create artwork using natural inks, including buckthorn berry ink.

Lock, Dam & Learn: A Visit to the St. Anthony Falls Lab

Thanks to our partners at the St. Anthony Falls Lab, 50 guests received a private tour of the research facility. Attendees got a first look at the planned Mississippi Gorge river model, which will soon be under construction. They also heard more about FMR's dam removal feasibility study. 

Prairie Party: Seeds, Science & Restoration

The Land Conservation crew braved the rain and enjoyed an FMR-restored urban prairie while under umbrellas. Guests heard about the transformational work completed on Nicollet Island and how every acre we restore helps the global ecosystem. 

Eat, Drink & Protect the River: A Clean-Water Crops Experience

After an educational presentation by our Water team, attendees walked through a few science experiments and sampled a dozen delicious clean-water crop snacks and beverages. 

Executive Director Whitney Clark wrapped up the evening by reflecting on his 30 years at FMR. His remarks just scratched the surface on the impact our Water, Land Conservation, Stewardship & Education, and Land Use & Planning teams have had on the Mississippi River.

FMR strives to take care of the river for future generations, and as Whitney said in his closing remarks, "while we appreciate and celebrate the great river and the many gifts it provides, let us also consider what we may be willing to do in return. For I believe that it is in this reciprocal relationship that we may find the deepest love."

Thanks to all who participated

We are immensely grateful for our community's overwhelming support and kindness in making this evening an incredible success. This event wouldn't have been possible without your time, talent and generosity — many thanks to everyone who joined us to celebrate the river.