Minnesota Nature Reserve Grows by 12,000 Acres of Woodlands and Marshes

Minnesota is recognized for its captivating forests, grasslands, and lakes, representing some of the most impressive terrains in the U.S. In an effort to protect these ecosystems, The Natural Conservancy (TNC) has completed its largest land purchase in Minnesota since 2000. Now, an astounding 12,271 acres of natural environments in Northern Minnesota have been designated as protected land.

With this purchase, TNC has nearly tripled the size of its Sand Lake/Seven Beavers Preserve, which previously covered only 6,344 acres. This land, situated north of Two Harbors in Minnesota’s Lake County, features distinctive flora and fauna, including some of the finest peatland forests in North America. Among the wildlife that inhabits this region are moose, lynx, gray wolves, black bears, and threatened songbirds such as the boreal chickadee and the Connecticut warbler.

“This was an outstanding chance to permanently protect a significant section of Minnesota’s Northwoods and to enhance our Sand Lake/Seven Beavers Preserve,” states Ann Mulholland, the director of The Nature Conservancy for Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. “By safeguarding the forests and waters in this area, we’re ensuring interconnected wildlife habitats, healthier forests, clean water, and ongoing public access now and for future generations.”

As this acquisition is focused on environmental conservation, the area will remain available to the public for hunting, fishing, and recreation; however, the organization cautions that there are no developed trails or restrooms on the land. TNC will also cover property taxes on the land as it restores forest and wetland habitats lost to a 2021 wildfire through planting methods aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change.

“This acquisition guarantees that wildlife can traverse a resilient, protected network of lands,” remarks Rich Biske, director of land and water protection for TNC in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. “As climate change compels species to search for new habitats, interconnected lands like this are increasingly essential. We take pride in ensuring this exceptional property remains unaltered and undeveloped for both people and nature.”

Sources: The Nature Conservancy protects 12,000+ acres of Minnesota’s Northwoods

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