State Forests

State forests are here for you today and tomorrow.aerial photograph of Pine forest

Minnesota's 58 state forests were established to produce timber and other forest crops, provide outdoor recreation, protect watersheds, and perpetuate rare and distinctive species of native flora and fauna. The DNR applies multiple-use management to meet the needs of Minnesota citizens. Management activities include timber harvesting, reforestation, wildlife habitat improvement, and recreational development. Wildlife management includes creating permanent openings in the forest to produce forage for white-tailed deer and planting shrubs to produce seeds and berries to benefit birds. The DNR also protects the forest and surrounding areas from wildfires.

DNR's state forest management goals are:

graphic of Minnesota's top 10 trees