Spring is here! Or so they say.
Since the vernal equinox marked the beginning of spring, Minnesotans have been celebrating the annual tradition of asking,
“What am I doing here!? Why did I choose to live here!?”
While much of the country is springing forth with new life, the past two mornings we’ve woken up to 4 inches of fresh snow.
Uptown Minneapolis 4/10
That being said, nearly every conversation I participate in turns to excitement to get out on the Mighty Mississippi. Whether it’s planning a camping trip or looking forward to the great festivals soon to fill the banks of the River, here in the Twin Cities it is hard to forget the Mississippi. Like so many cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul are defined by their relationship with the River. Everywhere we go we are either coursing along the bank of the river or crossing one of the 50+ bridges crossing the Mississippi in the cities.
Robert St. Bridge, St. Paul 4/10
Perhaps it is the continuous crossing of the river combined with a stubborn, frigid winter that calls Minnesotans to love the River so genuinely. Maybe it is the inexplicable majesty of its winding ways. To each his own.
While fellow River Citizens further south are already getting out on the River, here in Minnesota, as jealous as we are, we aren’t wasting any time getting involved and ready for the promised warmer weather. From the Friends of the Mississippi River’s “Native Plants, Raingardens, and Lawncare” class to Nice Film’s “Price of Sand” film debut, we’re keeping busy and keeping our minds on the River. We all look forward to the day band shells are full of people instead of snow.
Raspberry Island Band shell 4/10
The call to the River is alive and well. The upcoming spring and summer will be wildly embraced. The groundwork for a summer in service to the Mississippi River is laid. Anticipation is at an all time high.
Will you be there to join us?
Kit Fordham
Mississippi River Fund
1 Mississippi Intern Team Leader MN/WI