Natural Communities Restoration and Management Program

Prescribed burn along the Gateway State Trail.
Prescribed burn along the Gateway State Trail.

Natural mesic prairie opening in Paul Bunyan StateTrail right of way near Pine River.
Natural mesic prairie opening in Paul Bunyan State Trail right of way near Pine River.

The Natural Communities Restoration and Management Program's purpose is to improve the quality of natural plant communities, wildlife habitat, and regional landscape integrity, enhancing the recreation experience and raising awareness of our natural heritage.

Program responsibilities

  • Identify, preserve and manage natural plant communities.
  • Minimize construction damage and revegetate disturbed areas with native plants that are ecologically appropriate for the area.
  • Work with trail user groups and local citizen groups to foster understanding of and participation in management.
  • Interpret natural plant communities and management practices to the recreating public.
  • Provide technical information and assistance to Trails and Waterways staff and to the public.
  • Integrate natural resource management priorities into regional budgets.

Management guidelines

Guidelines for Managing and Restoring Natural Plant Communities along Trails and Waterways

Contact

Angela Anderson, Natural Communities Management Coordinator, 651-259-5613, angela.anderson@state.mn.us.