Transforming the Lock

This lock sits next to the only major falls on the entire Mississippi River and within the boundary of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. In 2015, the lock was closed to navigation as a result of advocacy led by NPCA to stop the upstream migration of invasive Asian carp in the river. The closure opened a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on this urban national park.

NPCA worked with more than 150 community members to develop ideas for the lock to become a world class visitor destination within the national park. We are now working with the Friends of the Lock and Dam whose mission is to re-purpose the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock to a world class visitor destination and interpretive center.

See this message from Congressman Keith Ellison about Transforming the Lock:

This vision for the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area was made possible through the generosity of The George Family Foundation and the National Parks Conservation Association Midwest Regional Council.