A new and historic land deal is expanding Minnesota's natural spaces.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has permanently protected nearly 16,000 acres of forest land across 10 northern counties.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to protect these forests, lakes, and waterways – now and for generations to come. This land will expand outdoor recreation access and preserve critical habitat,” DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen said.
This five-year effort, marks a major expansion of existing wildlife management areas, and state forests, ensuring critical habitat preservation for some of Minnesota's native species.
"For some of our bigger species like bear and moose to roam freely, without having to worry about crossing into, you know, someone's private land or a commercial land," notes the DNR's Ingrid Johnson.
The deal is one of the DNR's largest single acquisitions in recent history.
These efforts began with DNR's Conservation Fund purchasing land from PotlatchDeltic Corporation between 2018 and 2022, with the intent of preserving large blocks of forest land.
The DNR and counties then worked in collaboration to identify their respective acquisition priorities and secure funding, and will expand public access to areas of state forests.
Johnson says these areas are immediately open for public use.
"We worked very closely with St. Louis County and the other nine counties, to make sure that the, the parcels that we chose worked with their communities and all of our conservation goals. We're trying our best to be good stewards of the land."
The DNR adds this effort supports the state's $13.5 billion outdoor recreation industry.
“For the benefit of all Minnesotans and the state’s economy, we’re expanding recreational access, helping local wildlife thrive and ensuring that working forests can keep working,” said Kim Berns-Melhus, Minnesota State Director at TCF. “This outcome protects jobs in the forest industry, protects the lands we all need and love, and protects our shared heritage for future generations to enjoy.”