Updates and Articles

Partnering for habitat and culture at Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary

by Alex Roth

August 6, 2020

We're collaborating to restore Wakan Tipi/Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary. Our focus is on culturally important plant species and restoration techniques that better represent and honor the site's history and its ongoing importance to Dakota people. Read more

Dead zone 2020: The good, the bad and the algae

by Peter LaFontaine

August 5, 2020

A smaller-than-average Gulf of Mexico dead zone is cause for celebration — isn't it? >>

Youth guest column: Why environmental legislation is important and what you should know

by Fiona Hatch

July 30, 2020

Fiona, a summer Youth Empowerment Program participant, wants you to get involved in legislative action for clean water and the environment. Here's her account of the impact of recent environmental legislation, the possibility for critical change this year and in the future, and how you can influence policy. >>

What's been happening at Area C?

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

July 29, 2020

The official process for cleaning up a hazardous waste site like Ford Area C in St. Paul takes time, and it can be tough to keep up with the developments. Here’s a summary of what you (FMR supporters) have helped accomplish towards a better future at this floodplain waste dump so far, and what's still to come. >>

Tackling the issue of fishing line for wildlife

July 28, 2020

We've written a lot about how anglers can help our waters and wildlife by avoiding lead tackle. But another key action is disposing of fishing line responsibly. Jonathan, a Youth Empowerment Program participant this summer and avid fisher, built and installed a PVC fishing line receptacle at Hidden Falls Park. He's also got some tips for dealing with fishing line. >>

Blazing the way for habitat through a challenging spring burn season

by Alex Roth

July 24, 2020

Fire is one of the most important tools we use in the habitat restoration process, but burns require the right combination of weather, preparation and planning. Through a challenging spring, we were still able to burn five of our sites. Get a glimpse into the process in this video and photos from our spring burn season. >>

2020 Special session #2: A mixed disappointment

by Trevor Russell

July 23, 2020

On the heels of a regular session and first special session that failed to live up to expectations, Minnesota legislators have wrapped up a second special session with what could generously be considered “mixed results." See how FMR's priorities fared. >>

Pollinators and native plants, illustrated

July 21, 2020

Zosh, a summer Youth Empowerment Program participant, used her scientific illustration skills to celebrate pollinators and native plants. >>

Action Alert: Oppose state funds for First Avenue's concert venue at Upper Harbor Terminal [CLOSED]

July 17, 2020

The city of Minneapolis and First Avenue are seeking $20 million in state bond funds for a concert venue at Upper Harbor Terminal on the North Minneapolis riverfront. We’re not sure whether the community will benefit first from this project. Take action now. >>

Northside faith leaders: Police brutality, Upper Harbor Terminal share same racist legacy

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

July 15, 2020

Seven faith leaders from North Minneapolis have submitted a powerful letter to elected leaders outlining how police brutality, land ownership and Upper Harbor Terminal are connected. They state, "The killing of Black and Brown bodies by the police is directly connected to the history of the United States' quest for land and profit... The proposed Upper Harbor development in North Minneapolis continues to perpetuate this injustice." >>