Land Use & Planning

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

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November 6, 2025

A mining company wants to dig for materials beneath the Mississippi River in Cottage Grove. WCCO interviewed FMR's Colleen O'Connor Toberman about pushback from neighbors and government agencies. Read more

Ford Area C: The overlooked toxic waste dump along the river

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

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October 12, 2025

Did you know that Ford Motor Company owns a hazardous waste dump right on the river's edge in the middle of St. Paul? FMR has been a longtime advocate for cleaning up this site. Join us to take action. Read more

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

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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

Changing climate, changing river

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January 10, 2022

How will climate change affect our river, and what can we do about it? Read more

New FMR study will help answer crucial questions about potential dam removal

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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

Earth Day rally highlights threats to clean water

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May 7, 2026

FMR staff and River Guardians joined clean water advocates at the Minnesota State Capitol for an Earth Day rally. The event called attention to the risks of the proposed sulfide mine in the Mississippi headwaters. You can weigh in this summer. Read more