Updates and Articles

Video: How the 'big brown spot' pollutes the Mississippi River
When farm fields are bare, there’s nothing to stop soil, fertilizers and other farm chemicals from washing off into our rivers, lakes and streams. This "big brown spot" in the Midwest is by far the largest source of pollution to the Mississippi. Read more
Map of Midwest with brown over much of the area around the Mississippi River
Minnesota's drought contributes to drinking water crisis downriver
In this Q&A, Matt Rota at Healthy Gulf in Louisiana talks with FMR about the saltwater intrusion in the Mississippi River threatening New Orleans' drinking water supply — and already impacting communities farther south. Read more
Army Corps boats construct a sill to prevent saltwater intrusion
Nectar and ... blood? A surprising source of nutrients for butterflies
Our new pollinator biologist explains the phenomenon of butterfly puddling — sometimes on blood — and how we can make sure these insects get the nutrients and energy they need. Read more
Thank you for joining us at The River Provides
Over 250 attendees came together for The River Provides and raised more than $175,000 to protect the river and the communities it sustains. Thanks to all who participated! Check out our photos of the evening and a recap of the program highlights. Read more
Whitney speaks at podium in front of gala crowd
We've moved! Take a look at FMR's new space
Our new office is just across the river from our old location. Check out our new mailing address and a few photos of the space, unpacking in progress. Read more
Arrow points to old brick building near the Wabasha Bridge
St. Paul continues to dodge new riverfront development rules
St. Paul's promising ordinance has been stalled for months, with no explanation from city leaders. Read more
The downtown St. Paul skyline stretches across the top of the frame, with the river and residential housing in the foreground.
Now available: FMR's enhanced Cultural Landscapes lesson
Our education program teaches hundreds of youth yearly about watersheds, pollution, ecosystems and more. Recently, we updated our cultural connections curriculum to be more engaging, inclusive and user-friendly for educators. Read more
Advisory council listens to a speaker about their cultural river connection
Rave reviews for locally made Kernza goods, even amid market growing pains
It takes more than a tasty product to create a market. Learn about how growers, businesses and consumers can work together to support clean-water crops like Kernza. Read more
A recently baked cinnamon apple Kernza muffin is split apart on a plate. A mug can be seen on the table just behind it.
Reflections on the recent youth & climate change ruling
A landmark decision for the first constitutional climate trial in the U.S. is about more than climate change. It's about considering the full impact of our actions today, and the power youth have to fight climate change in the courts — and win. Read more
Two young people hold a sign in the river gorge that reads "Protect our future"
Is Minnesota doing enough to protect our drinking water?
A recent headline in the Star Tribune said it all: 'Little action so far on plan to enlist farmers to clean up polluted groundwater in Minnesota.' How did we get here? And what do we do about it? Read more
Person holds a mason jar of clear water in a field of Kernza

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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