Watershed Protection Program details

Water is a precious, limited resource. Clean water is essential for life – and a vital component of our Minnesota way of life. The cultural, economic, recreational and public health benefits of clean, healthy water have long been priorities for communities throughout the Mississippi River watershed.

Water quality continues to be one of the most pressing concerns for the Mississippi River, as the entire Twin Cities stretch of the river is on the state's list of impaired waters. To restore the health and integrity of the river, FMR works with community stakeholders to protect and enhance water quality in the Mississippi River and its watershed in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Our Water Protection Program works to activate and engage individual citizens through education, monitoring and volunteer stewardship programs. We also work shape the priorities of local governments and impact public policy related to local and state water quality.

Water Quality and the Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act, along with state and local water protection laws, forms the foundation of our clean water policy and water clean up programs in Minnesota. To learn more, click on the Impaired Waters 101 link below. The best way to learn about the most significant issues facing water quality today in the metro area is to start with The State of the River Report

Local Water Quality Policy and Projects

FMR has worked at the community and watershed level on a wide range of water quality projects.

Past projects include:

Stewardship and Monitoring Projects

FMR also offers volunteer and education programs to improve the river's health, including storm drain stenciling, stream health monitoring and hands-on habitat restoration outings that benefit our wildlife and our waters. Learn more.

For more information about these projects, please contact FMR Water Program Director Trevor Russell via our contact form or at (651) 222-2193 ext. 18.

Upcoming Events

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 9:30am to 12:00pm
West River Parkway and 36th Street/44th Street, Minneapolis
Applications due Friday, May 3 by 5 p.m.
Virtual and in-person
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 - 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Hampton Woods Wildlife Management Area