restoration

Art from invasives: An interview with Kim and Emily

by Ellie Rogers

February 26, 2019

FMR volunteers Kimberly Boustead and Emily Sauer remove buckthorn, garlic mustard and more at our stewardship events. And they also use their creativity to spread awareness about how to stop the spread of invasive species. Read more about their favorite river spots, buckthorn berry ink and a new spin on the muscle tee. >>

Bird surveys reveal steady increases at FMR prairie restorations

by Karen Schik

December 7, 2018

Our land conservation team not only restores habitat, but monitors that habitat for wildlife data. After years of conducting breeding bird surveys at our prairie restoration sites, we can now see clear trends in increased number of species, especially species of greatest conservation need. >>

Habitat in the city: the power of the single yard

by Betsy Daub

November 6, 2018

Native plants are for the birds! A recent study shows chickadee populations decline in residential yards filled with non-native plants, meaning even your backyard can provide crucial habitat. >>

Why do volunteers hand-collect seed for FMR?

by Karen Schik

October 8, 2018

What would you be willing to pay for a few teaspoons of prairie seed? Seeds from native prairie remnants that our volunteers collect by hand are priceless. >>

River Heights Park saved, restoration begins!

September 19, 2018

After hearing from dozens of community members (including many FMR River Guardians), the Inver Grove Heights city council unanimously voted to save River Heights Park on Monday, May 14.

The council had been considering carving up and selling the 7.5-acre undeveloped natural area as three 2.5-acre lots for housing developers. Instead, the city, FMR and neighbors are going to work together to make the park more accessible — adding a park sign and bench, with details to be determined — while keeping it a natural area and restoring important bird habitat. >>

Residents and River Guardians helped save this park!

Snapping turtle hatchlings protected from predators

by Ellie Rogers

September 10, 2018

Our wildlife cameras caught baby snapping turtles hatching in peace thanks to our new wildlife nest enclosure at Spring Lake Islands Wildlife Management Area. >>

Restoring habitat on an urban island

by Alex Roth

September 10, 2018

After almost two years of planning, FMR is embarking on our Nicollet Island habitat restoration project designed to enhance wildlife habitat, control erosion and improve water quality. >>