Agencies and community members push back against river mining proposal in Cottage Grove

A mining company wants to dig for materials beneath the Mississippi River in Cottage Grove. WCCO interviewed FMR Land Use and Planning Director Colleen O'Connor Toberman (video above) about concerns from neighbors and government agencies.

FMR has been following the issue for some time and spoke at the Cottage Grove City Council meeting on November 5, 2025. Learn more about the outcome of the meeting or sign up for Mississippi Messages for updates. 

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Upcoming Events

August 13 through October 31, 2026
Throughout St. Paul
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 - 8:00pm to 9:30pm
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Thursday, September 10, 2026 - 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Near the Mississippi River backwaters, St. Paul Park

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Celebrate the Mississippi River and choose your own adventure while supporting FMR at our reimagined fall fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 24.