Water

FMR is proud to be a leading voice in protecting the water of our Big River and all the people and wildlife who depend on it.

From the banks of the Mississippi to the halls of the Legislature, our Water program strives to keep you up to date on important water-quality issues. (For political animals, here are all FMR posts related to legislative advocacy.)

Blog updates are also shared on social (Facebook and Twitter) and in FMR's Mississippi Messages newsletter.

Join us! Sign up to be a River Guardian to receive email action alerts when we need your help the most, plus invitations to educational happy hours and other events.

POSTS

FMR in DC: Reflections from a whirlwind week in the nation's capital
Grassroots Organizing Coordinator Maddie Miller shares what it was like advocating for the Mississippi River alongside coalition partners in D.C. Read more
FMR grassroots organizing coordinator pictured with Sen. Tina Smith and other members of the MRN delegation.
Revised state budget forecast boosts Clean Water Fund
Good news for efforts addressing Minnesota’s most pressing water quality challenges and opportunities! Read more
A couple of paddlers in a canoe on the Mississippi River, seen from high above. The shore is lined with golden and red trees.
Clean-water crops: What we’ll be advocating for at the Capitol
We’ll be advocating for critical investments in clean-water crops such as Kernza, as well as more support for the local businesses nurturing their use. Read more
A farmer drives a combine harvester over a field of Kernza. Text over the image says "MNLEG 2024"
Restoring public oversight of major MPCA decisions
We all benefit from community oversight of the biggest, most important agency for pollution regulation in Minnesota. Read more
A flurry of hands in the air, fingers pointed up as if wanting to interject in an important conversation.
Our 2024 legislative priorities
It’s time to finish what we started. Here's what FMR will be working to accomplish at the Capitol this year. Read more
The dome of the Minnesota Capitol building, seen in front of an evening blue sky. Text says "MNLEG 2024."
Renewing the call for a federal river restoration program
A bill to create a place-based, whole-river program Mississippi River Restoration and Resilience Initiative Act was introduced in both the House and the Senate for the first time. Read more
Great blue heron flying over water
Just released: Read the landmark new report 'Putting Down Roots'
The report, which measures the environmental impact of crops that provide continuous living cover, was produced by FMR, Ecotone Analytics and the Forever Green Partnership. Read more
A hand prods at the bare dirt, prepping for a seed planting. Text says "Putting Down Roots: Analyzing the economic and environmental benefits of  continuous living cover for MN’s farmers, water and climate"
Media shines spotlight on FMR staff and creative solutions for vexing river issues
Whether clean-water crops, carp or buckthorn, the expertise of FMR staff has been on full display. Read more
FMR staff, camelina, carp, buckthorn
Press release: ‘A win-win’ — Report finds new crops could boost farmer profits while protecting MN’s waters
Our first-of-its-kind analysis presents unused winter cropland as an untapped opportunity and force for clean water in Minnesota. Read more
Hand holding jar of water in field of 'living cover' crops.
Winter oilseeds: Key to clean water and lower emissions
These clean-water crops, which stay in the soil through the winter, can benefit the river in numerous ways. Read more
Organic farmer Karen Torjesen holds a hand low to the ground, amidst a recently planted field of winter camelina in November, 2023.

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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