Become a Site Steward

What is a Site Steward?

Site stewards are the eyes and ears for Minnesota's Scientific & Natural Areas (SNA). Stewards, working with guidance from SNA staff, assist in the goals of land protection, management, and education & research on a site they choose to monitor. Some tasks that may be a part of a steward's duties include:

1. Regular visits to the site
2. Reporting observations from site visits
3. Learning about the protection and management goals for the site
4. Participating in site projects and events

Is being a Site Steward right for me? Consider these factors:

Location, location, location

• How far the site is from you and from the nearest road will factor into travel time to get to it.
  • Do you enjoy the challenge of navigating to a very remote spot that is not easily accessed?
  • Or do you want to be able to jump right into a nearby site that is on a main road?



Size matters

• The size of sites vary greatly and will impact the time needed for stewardship.
  • Would you like focusing in great detail on a small, six acre site?
  • Or will a site over sixteen hundred acres satisfy your desire for exploring large open spaces?



Lakes and Talus and Bogs, oh my:

• Habitats on a site will determine what you will need to wear or equipment you may need.
  • Do you have waders, binoculars, or lots of sunscreen necessary to complete your duties?



Can I get a little help here?

• In general, the closer the site is to larger cities, the greater the chance you will have for volunteers to assist you in site projects.



What can I offer?

• If you're a good birder, botanist, or brush-cutter you can put those skills to use on the right site.

What are my responsibilities as a Site Steward?

We're glad you asked; read on.