Past Projects

Cottonwood Restoration Study

Cottonwoods are ecologically valuable for many reasons, but a 2011 study shows they are not regenerating in the Mississippi River floodplain. To address this issue, Mississippi Park Connection, together with the National Park Service, spent two years studying to find a solution to this issue.

Emerald Ash Borer Impact Study

In 2009, Minnesota was added to the growing list of states that have become reluctant homes to the invasive pest, Emerald ash borer. This study project assessed the state of the threatened ash tree population within Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, identified successful management practices, and helped determine the best adaptation strategies.

Stop Carp Coalition

In 2011, Mississippi Park Connection funded e-DNA studies of the Mississippi River that showed that invasive carp were a threat to our river’s ecosystem. Since then, our organization has taken a lead on a public awareness campaign about the carp, specifically targeting boaters, anglers, and sportsmen. We joined the Stop Carp Coalition to work with other partners on the river to pass legislation in 2014 that closed the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock in June of 2015.