How our volunteer and education programs work on climate change
Our Stewardship & Education program philosophy is based on the fact that people who learn more about and find their own ways to connect with the places around them will be more likely to protect and steward the environment. Here's how our volunteer and education programs plant the seeds for climate change efforts through each event and partnership. >>
2021 Environmental Stewardship Institute
FMR's third year of the Environmental Stewardship Institute, themed Resilient Waters: Building Community and Connection, wrapped up with spectacular projects from our high school-aged fellows — everything from comic books to interactive websites on topics ranging from composting to pollinators. >>
Environmental Stewardship Institute alum keeps Hidden Falls Park clean
One key way anglers can help our waters and wildlife is by disposing of fishing line responsibly. As an ESI fellow last year, Jonathan built and installed a PVC fishing line receptacle at Hidden Falls Park and has maintained it ever since.
A summer project turned into a year-round commitment for 2020 ESI Fellow Jonathan Wilson-Thieroff. Read about how he made an impact reducing fishing line waste at this beloved riverfront park. >>
Join us for Earth Day 2021 and beyond
We're planning a busy spring of trash cleanups, garlic mustard pulls and more. Sign up for spring events today!
We're planning a busy spring of trash cleanups, garlic mustard pulls and more. Sign up for spring events today! >>
Thank you, 2020 River Stewards!
SuperVolunteer Karen Jenkins helps to restore the prairie triangles at Indian Mounds Park. Karen is one of more than 700 volunteers who joined us this year. (Photo by Dodd Demas for FMR.)
In 2020, volunteers of all ages got their hands dirty with FMR at community volunteer events. Together more than 700 individuals gave a combined 2,674 hours of service to help protect, enhance and restore the health of the river and our local communities despite COVID-19. We're so grateful to our amazing River Stewards! >>
2020 Youth Empowerment Program final projects
This year, participants in our Youth Empowerment Program tackled issues of environmental justice, microplastics, climate change and more in their final projects.
This year, participants in our Youth Empowerment Program tackled issues of environmental justice, microplastics, climate change and more. Enjoy a selection of their final projects. >>
In support of justice for George Floyd: Ways you can help
As we listen to Black voices, it's clear that statements of support are only the start of the work we need to do to make sure our public spaces are safe and welcoming to all people. This work is crucial to our vision for the river and its communities. And right now, our communities are overwhelmed with need. Here are some ways you can help. >>
Spring Lake Park: Take the survey by May 31!
Weigh in for the importance of preserving and restoring natural areas (home to animals such as this fisher) while also serving the needs and interests of the most people at this important Dakota County riverfront park. >>
Earth Day and beyond: Spring activities (fingers crossed)
Though we're not sure what will happen in April, we are sure we'll find and share ways to work toward river health (and human health!) this Earth Day.
Most of FMR's spring events take place in May and early June. For the moment, these events are open for registration. Our fingers crossed, we'll be able to get back out there to restore riverfront habitat soon. So please do sign up!
Naturally, we're watching health guidelines carefully. If you register, we may end up emailing you to support independent restoration outings instead, but we'll be sure to send detailed location and training information to help you do the most good. >>
