As spring begins to bloom along the banks of the Mississippi, it’s time to lace up your running shoes—or grab your favorite antennae and wings—for a cause that truly matters. On Saturday, April 18, 2026, the Great River Coalition will host the 11th Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk and River Cleanup at Boom Island Park in Minneapolis.
This isn’t just a race; it’s a movement. Nestled within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area—the only national park of its kind—this event brings together families, fitness enthusiasts, and environmental stewards to protect our planet’s most hardest-working tiny heroes: our pollinators.
The Mission: “Bee” the Change
The Great River Coalition is on a mission to create a Pollinator Pathway that stretches from the headwaters at Lake Itasca all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. By participating in this event, you are directly supporting the restoration of native habitats and raising awareness for the vital role bees play in our riverfront communities.
Whether you’re running the 5K, taking a scenic walk, or volunteering for the organized river cleanup, you’re helping ensure that the Mississippi River remains a vibrant, living ecosystem for generations to come.
8 Buzz-Worthy Facts: Why Bees Matter to the Mississippi and Beyond
If you’ve ever wondered why we dedicate an entire 5K to these fuzzy flyers, here are eight reasons why bees are the backbone of our environment:
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Bank Stabilizers: Bees pollinate native riverside plants. These plants have deep, complex root systems that hold the soil together, preventing the banks of the Mississippi from eroding into the water.
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Water Purifiers: By maintaining healthy vegetation along the river (riparian zones), bees indirectly help filter pollutants and runoff before they ever reach the river’s edge.
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Minnesota’s Own Hero: The Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, Minnesota’s state bee, is federally endangered. The Mississippi River corridor serves as a critical habitat “highway” for their survival.
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The “One-Third” Rule: Roughly one out of every three bites of food you eat—from Minnesota-grown apples to berries—is thanks to bee pollination. No bees, no breakfast!
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Ground-Level Residents: Did you know that 70% of native bees nest in the ground? Protecting the soil around the river from pollution and compaction is just as important as protecting the flowers.
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Biodiversity Builders: Bees don’t just help humans; they pollinate the seeds and fruits that feed local river wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and other small mammals.
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Economic Engines: Bee pollination contributes billions of dollars to the global agricultural economy. Along the Mississippi, where farming is a way of life, bees are essential business partners.
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Environmental Sentinels: Bees are “indicator species.” Their health (or lack thereof) is a direct reflection of the health of our local environment. When bees thrive, it’s a sign that our air, water, and soil are clean.
Event Logistics: What You Need to Know
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When: Saturday, April 18, 2026
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Where: Boom Island Park, 724 Sibley St. NE, Minneapolis, MN
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Schedule:
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8:30 AM: Kids’ Run (Ages 6 and under — Free!)
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9:00 AM: 5K Run/Walk Starts
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9:30 AM: Organized River Cleanup (Bags and gloves provided — Free!)
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Registration: $40 in advance / $45 on race day.
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Prizes & Fun: This is a family and dog-friendly event! Costumes are highly encouraged—expect to see plenty of stripes and wings. There will be music, educational booths, and great prizes, including a smart TV and tickets to US Bank Stadium.
How to Register
Ready to make a difference? Head over to GreatRiverCoalition.com to sign up, donate, or sign up as a volunteer for the cleanup.
Let’s fill Boom Island with a swarm of supporters this Earth Day. See you at the starting line—let’s make some buzz!
