The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking individuals to collect tree seeds and cones this fall and winter. Seeds and cones are essential for growing the tree seedlings at the State Forest Nursery that are used to reforest thousands of acres across Minnesota each year.
“Each bushel of seed or cones collected helps grow the next generation of Minnesota’s forests,” said Nicole Schafer, DNR seed and cone consultant. “We count on local seed sources and dedicated collectors to keep our reforestation efforts strong.”
The DNR pays for high-quality cones collected from native tree species. Collectors should call their local DNR Forestry office before collecting to confirm which species are needed and to arrange drop-off. Seeds and cones from single yard trees are not recommended. Many yard trees could be cultivars or nonnative varieties, and collecting from just one tree limits genetic diversity.
Current high-demand species and payments:
- Jack pine, $60 per bushel for closed, ripe cones: Collection period Sept. 5–March 1.
- Black spruce, $200 per bushel for closed, ripe cones: Collection period Sept. 15–March
- Red pine, $80 per bushel for closed, ripe cones: Peak collection period was in mid-September but there might be some northern pockets with closed cones still available.
The DNR is currently at capacity for acorns and black walnuts and is not accepting additional quantities of those species this fall and winter.
Cones must be ripe, closed, and free of stems, leaves, and debris. Store collected cones in a cool, dry area and deliver them to a Forestry Office drop-off location as soon as possible to maintain seed quality. Collectors can find additional information about other species, current prices, and collection tips on the DNR’s seed and cone collection webpage.