Visiting a Scientific and Natural Area (SNA)

Most SNAs are open to public use, with noted exceptions that are reserved for research or educational use by written permit only. Some are not directly accessible by road, but may require a boat or a significant hike. Maps in this guide are intended for directional use. They do not show precise legal boundaries. Please ask for landowner's permission before crossing private lands.

Site development varies widely; signage and parking facilities may or may not exist at individual sites. Some now have interpretive kiosks to help visitors identify key features and processes. Public conveniences, including trails, are the exception.

Primitive conditions fit program goals, and the visitor who can appreciate this very quality will value these sites. Those who look for the best examples of prehistoric geologic formations or pre-settlement natural communities can most readily find them on SNAs.

Visitors are encouraged to observe and learn, while protecting the plants, animals, and geological features on the site. Please:

• Leave wildflowers, plants, animals, rocks, and other elements in place to fulfill their life cycle and role in the environment.
• Enjoy the site only on foot, snow shoes, or skis, leaving all vehicles off site.
• Leave the site in as pristine a condition as it was when you arrived.
• Camping is not allowed on Scientific and Natural Areas; in many instances, public camping facilities are available nearby.
• Hunting and fishing are permitted only on peatland SNAs or those listed in the hunting synopsis; consult the regulations carefully regarding areas that are open for hunting and fishing.
• In general, pets are not allowed on SNAs in keeping with their purpose to protect and perpetuate, in an undisturbed natural state, the rare and endangered plants and animals that inhabit these preserves.  Only two SNAs in Hennepin County allow pets - Wood-Rill allows dogs on 6-foot leashes and Wolsfeld Woods allows horses on specified trails.

These standards carry the full force and effect of state law. Any activity that violates or damages resources - air, water, soil, plants, animals, and rocks - is punishable by fine or jail sentence.

Remember that the state manages public lands for varying levels of usage; it has determined that SNAs are very sensitive and deserve maximum protection for scientific and educational uses. Help protect SNAs plants, animals, and geological features:

• Respect the rules
• Report problems
• Spread the word of SNA significance
• Support establishment of SNAs by
  • Volunteering to help protect and manage sites
  • Donating land or making financial contributions
  • Supporting the program financially
  • Supporting favorable legislation
  • Supporting private conservation groups that actively help preserve such lands

SNAs are an important resource. Enjoy your visit, and plan to see them all!

Check the resources page for additional reading, organizations and associations where you can learn more about Minnesota state treasures. The more you see, the more you'll want to learn--the more you learn, the more you'll want to see.