Conservation

FMR works with landowners, government agencies and concerned residents — including hundreds of volunteers — to protect and restore bluffs, prairies, forests and other lands important to our communities and the health of our metro Mississippi.

Here's what our conservation staff are currently working on and encountering in the field. 

Learn more about all our protection and restoration sites at our conservation map, as well as more information about our approach and program.

Conservation updates are also shared on social media (Facebook and Twitter) and in our Mississippi Messages newsletter.

POSTS

How FMR's priorities for the Mississippi River fared this session
FMR made progress on every single one of its priorities this legislative session. Here's a roundup of everything that happened. Read more
A collage showing parts of five different photos, all from this legislative session: Two FMR staffers posing with fish postcards in the Capitol; an FMR staffer testifying at a May 1 hearing; A state senator posing with children following a hearing; legislators on a tour at the Forever Green Initiative facilities; printed papers with the FMR logo, shown with the Capitol building in the background.
FMR pollinator research and habitat projects receive state funds
The Minnesota Legislature passed bills that include five FMR restoration and enhancement projects and our three-year research project on best practices for pollinator habitat management. Read more
Native plants and bee + text "#MNLEG Final Update"
Welcome to four new FMR staff
This spring we're excited to introduce you to four new staff who will work with our youth programs, events, restoration projects and pollinator research. Read more
Julia, Leah, Carrie, Sov
Where we work: Vermillion River Linear Park
Located along the Vermillion River and the Greenway trail in Hastings, this park's connection to the river and historical roots as a prairie have led us to work with local students and partners to restore its diverse habitats. Read more
Coneflowers on a prairie
Must-see FMR spring birding sites along the river
FMR has helped to protect and restore a number of first-rate birding spots in the metro. Take advantage of the spring migration season with a visit to our top Mississippi River flyway sites. Read more
Ruby-crowned kinglet
Where FMR's 2023 priorities stand at the Legislature
An overview of the progress we've made — and what still needs to happen — as we enter the final weeks of the session. Read more
Looking up at the iconic dome of the Capitol building in St. Paul, against a clear blue sky as backdrop. Text over the image says "FMR's priorities #MNLEG"
Got scat? The next phase of the coyote and fox project
How are wild canids adapting to urban areas? FMR supporters have been helping researchers find out. Hear about how to get involved in two new community science initiatives with the Twin Cities Coyote and Fox Project. Read more
Coyote standing atop inactive railroad tracks.
Where we work: Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area
A 220-acre protected riverfront stretch in Cottage Grove, Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area offers vast views of the river valley and is home to a rare dry prairie that supports an immense diversity of plants, birds and other wildlife. Read more
Volunteers walk up hill at Grey Cloud Dunes
Thanks to Hugh, our fall Land Conservation intern
Hugh supported bird and plant surveys, analyzed data, sorted native prairie seeds and helped lead volunteer stewardship events. We're grateful to him for his service! Read more
Hugh Gabriel
Our 2023 legislative priorities
From clean-water crops to invasive carp, here's a rundown of what we hope to accomplish at the Capitol. Read more
The top of the Minnesota Capitol building in St. Paul.

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Upcoming Events

May 1-31, 2023
Orvis - Miracle Mile, St. Louis Park
Saturday, June 3, 2023 - 9:00am to 11:00am
William H. Houlton Conservation Area, Elk River
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 - 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Fair State Brewing Cooperative, Minneapolis