FMR Updates

River drawdown offers a look back in time... and a glimpse of the future?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

October 7, 2020

What did the Mississippi River look like before the locks and dams? For a few days, we got a glimpse near St. Anthony Falls of what a less-encumbered Mississippi might look like if locks and dams are removed. Check out our photos. >>

FMR's first-ever virtual gala a hit!

by Ellie Rogers

October 7, 2020

At Our Storied River, we raised close to $170,000 for the river. Thank you! If you missed the livestream or you just want to see it again, check out this collection of our featured river stories, a tour from FMR staff of a few of our favorite places, and glimpses of the artwork created for the event. >>

FMR staff at four locations on the river

A serene image for a rocky 2020: FMR's fourth water quality mural

by Kate Clayton

October 6, 2020

Our latest water quality mural is also our first to focus on the Mississippi River. The postcard-like design showcases the river as a serene destination, created by two local artists with input from students. See the mural up close near the pavilion at Harriet Island. >>

Artists work on mural and pose with finished mural

From buckthorn to endangered bumblebees, a habitat success story

by Karen Schik

September 22, 2020

We're thrilled that an FMR restoration site, a local woodland once choked with European buckthorn, now supports the rusty patched bumblebee, a federally endangered species. >>

Minneapolis residents: Act now to protect your riverfront!

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

September 15, 2020

The city of Minneapolis is taking public comments on its new ordinance to guide riverfront development and land management. The ordinance has a lot of strengths, but we'd like to see more protections for birds along this crucial migratory flyway.

Learn more by reading FMR's analysis or attending our upcoming virtual Q&A. >>

2020 Youth Empowerment Program final projects

by Sophie Downey

September 14, 2020

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. >>

State’s Groundwater Protection Rule now in full effect

by Trevor Russell

September 10, 2020

As noted in a recent MPR News story, Minnesota farm operators will no longer be allowed to apply nitrogen fertilizer in the fall or on frozen ground above Minnesota’s most vulnerable aquifers. While that means cleaner drinking water for many Minnesotans, this rule alone won't solve our nitrate pollution problems. >>