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Our Story

Our Mission

Friends of the Minnesota Valley works within the Minnesota River watershed to procure sound, science-based decisions that promote healthy and sustainable uses of its rivers, streams and other natural resources. Our programs are designed to build and engage a volunteer grassroots citizen network compatible with our goal of achieving a healthy and sustainable environment in the Minnesota River valley. 

Preserving the Minnesota River Valley since 1981

1960-1970s

Creation of Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

In the late 1960s, a group of citizens formed the Lower Minnesota River Citizens Committee to advocate for the creation of a National Wildlife Refuge in the lower Minnesota Valley. Their efforts led to the establishment of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in 1976 through an act of Congress. The committee continued its work post-refuge creation.

1981

Formation of Friends of the Minnesota Valley 

In the fall of 1981, several organizations, including the Lower Minnesota River Citizens Committee and the Minnesota Valley Audubon Society, met with the Refuge Manager and other agencies to form a nonprofit organization. This led to the creation of Friends of the Minnesota Valley (FMV) as a formal advocacy group for the Refuge. FMV received preliminary 501(c)3 approval in 1982 and formal approval in 1988.

1983

FMV's Advocacy for Refuge Funding

Late 1980s

Expansion of FMV's Focus

During the 1980s, FMV broadened its mission from advocating solely for the refuge to addressing environmental issues across the entire Minnesota River watershed. This shift allowed FMV to engage in larger conservation projects across the region.

FMV played a crucial role in lobbying Congress for federal funding to support the expansion of the refuge and the construction of its visitor center. In 1983, thanks to FMV’s efforts, Congress appropriated $35 million for these projects, marking a major milestone in the refuge's development.

1999

The Airport Settlement Agreement and Minnesota Valley Trust

1990s

FMV filed a lawsuit against the Metropolitan Airports Commission to address the negative effects of a new runway on the Refuge. The settlement resulted in a payment of over $25 million and the creation of the nonprofit Minnesota Valley Trust, which helped fund land acquisitions and the construction of the Carver Rapids Visitor Center.

Advocacy for the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)

FMV was instrumental in lobbying for the establishment of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), which aimed to improve water quality and reduce floodplain farming. Through FMV’s efforts, significant funding was secured for land easements, and over 100,000 acres of sensitive land were protected from active farming.

[TBD]

Opposition to Proposed Music Amphitheater

2017

FMV led the charge to prevent an outdoor music amphitheater from being built near the Louisville Swamp Unit of the Refuge. The amphitheater would have disrupted the tranquility of the area, harming the visitor experience. FMV’s efforts were successful, and the amphitheater was never built.

Launch of the River Watch Program

FMV launched the River Watch program in 2017, engaging high school students in water quality monitoring on the Minnesota River. The program not only gathers important data but also educates youth about the importance of clean water and creates passionate advocates for the future of the Minnesota River Basin.

Today

Continued Advocacy and Environmental Engagement

Today, FMV continues to play a leading role in protecting the natural resources of the Minnesota River Basin. From organizing petition drives to being a founding member of the Minnesota River Congress, FMV remains dedicated to conservation efforts and advocating for the environment.

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Friends of the Minnesota Valley

6601 Auto Club Rd

Bloomington, MN 55438

©2025 by Friends of the Minnesota Valley and secured by Wix

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