The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is recruiting new members to serve on several key advisory groups related to natural resource management. The DNR has a long and proud tradition of working closely with advisory groups as we manage natural resources across Minnesota. With their diverse membership, advisory group members share a wide range of important perspectives and experiences with DNR.
Because no single group can effectively and credibly address the full scope of DNR’s resource management responsibilities, we rely on several different advisory groups, each of which allows members to focus on particular aspects of our work to help shape thoughtful, balanced, and community‑informed decisions. We’re currently seeking new members to join several key advisory groups and continue this legacy of collaboration.
The advisory groups for which DNR is seeking applicants include:
- Catfish Fisheries Work Group
- Esocid (i.e., northern pike and muskie) Fisheries Work Group
- Panfish Fisheries Work Group
- Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee
- Lake of the Woods Fisheries Input Group
- Natural Heritage Advisory Committee
- Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
- Recruit, Retain, Reactivate Advisory Council
- Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee
“Public input is essential to ensuring DNR’s work reflects the experiences, needs, and aspirations of the people we serve,” said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “In alignment with our mission to work with Minnesotans, I encourage anyone who is passionate about the outdoors and wants to make a difference to consider one of the advisory committees that helps shape DNR decisions.”
The DNR aims for each advisory group to include people from a diverse mix of backgrounds, perspectives, locations and experiences to lend a breadth of knowledge and insight to the groups.
Those interested in serving on any of the following advisory groups can learn more about deadlines and how to apply on the DNR website.
Catfish Fisheries Work Group
The Catfish Fisheries Work Group discusses catfish-related management and research topics to learn about and contribute to understanding of catfish management and advise DNR staff on management issues and research.
The group is seeking applicants who represent a broad range of interests and viewpoints.
Terms: Two or three years. Members can reapply but can serve no more than two consecutive terms.
Meets: Several times a year, with at least two in-person meetings annually.
Learn more: Fisheries work groups webpage
Esocid Fisheries Work Group
The Esocid Fisheries Work Group discusses northern pike and muskellunge-related management and research topics to learn about and contribute to understanding of pike and muskie management and advise DNR staff on management issues and research.
At this time, the group is seeking applicants who are specifically interested in northern pike.
Terms: Three years with the option to renew for a second term.
Meets: Typically four times annually, with up to two in-person meetings.
Learn more: Fisheries work groups webpage
Panfish Fisheries Work Group
The Panfish Fisheries Work Group discusses panfish-related management and research topics to expand understanding of panfish management and advise DNR staff on management issues and research.
Terms: Three years with the option to renew for a second term.
Meets: Typically twice per year, once in person.
Learn more: Fisheries work groups webpage
Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee
The Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee makes policy and program recommendations to the Legislature and DNR commissioner for desired outcomes related to protecting, restoring and enhancing fish and wildlife habitat, fish and wildlife population management, fish and wildlife monitoring and research, communications and engagement, and improvements in the management and use of money in the game and fish fund.
The committee publicizes its work through an annual report and public meeting. In even numbered years, the report focuses on DNR outcomes achieved and improvements related to game and fish fund expenditures. In odd-numbered years, the report focuses on outcomes related to protecting habitat, fish and wildlife population management, monitoring and research, and communications and engagement.
The committee is seeking applicants who are Minnesota residents and who have purchased a personal or commercial Minnesota hunting, fishing or trapping license since Jan. 1 of the previous calendar year or licensed their vehicle with an active critical habitat license plate.
Terms: Two or three years, members are eligible to serve up to six consecutive years.
Meets: Monthly. Committee members work on their own time to produce an annual report.
Learn more: Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee webpage
Lake of the Woods Fisheries Input Group
The Lake of the Woods Fisheries Input Group discusses fisheries issues, reviews technical information, weighs management alternatives, and provides practical counsel on the Lake of the Wood’s management.
The group is seeking applicants who have an interest in Lake of the Woods fisheries management and who represent either of the following slots: 1) Representative employee or owner of a resort on the south shore of Lake of the Woods or 2) Local angler that resides in Lake of the Woods or Roseau County and does not have a direct business or economic interest tied to angling in Lake of the Woods.
Terms: One management planning cycle (10 years), until the member no longer represents the applicable stakeholder group or slot for which they applied (e.g., local angler/resort representative), or until they no longer wish to serve as a member of the group. Open seats include one for someone who represents a resort based out of the south shore of Lake of the Woods and a local angler from Lake of the Woods or Roseau County who does not have a direct business or economic interest tied to angling on Lake of the Woods.
Meets: Annually in late winter during non-planning years and up to eight times in planning years.
Learn more: Lake of the Woods webpage
Natural Heritage Advisory Committee
The Natural Heritage Advisory Committee advises the DNR on issues relating to sustaining the state’s natural heritage, biological diversity and ecosystem services. Members make recommendations to help protect high quality prairies, forests, wetlands and other native habitats, and the diversity of plants and animals they support.
The committee is seeking applicants who live in Minnesota and who have knowledge, demonstrated dedication or experience related to natural resource management, conservation biology, ecological education and outreach, or other aspects of Minnesota’s natural heritage.
Terms: New member appointments will begin in January 2027 and are for three-year terms.
Meets: First Wednesday of every other month.
Learn more: Natural Heritage Advisory Committee webpage
Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
The Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee provides recommendations to enhance promotion, coordination and accountability for the coordinated network of parks and trails throughout the implementation of the 25-year Parks and Trails Legacy Plan.
The committee is seeking applicants with backgrounds in outdoor recreation, outdoor skills building, youth programs, education, parks and trails accessibility, natural resources, marketing, integrated technology, tourism, or business.
Terms: Two years, with the potential of being reappointed for a maximum of three terms.
Meets: Every other month (six times annually) at parks and trails facilities throughout the state.
Learn more: Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee webpage
Recruit, Retain, Reactivate Advisory Council
The Recruit, Retain, Reactivate Advisory Council aims to increase the number of hunters and anglers in Minnesota and build support and awareness of hunting and angling traditions and opportunities.
The council is seeking applicants who are active leaders in the hunting and fishing community, with a vested interest in efforts to grow participation in hunting, angling and trapping.
Terms: At least two years.
Meets: Quarterly and as needed for working group meetings.
Learn more: Minnesota R3 Council webpage
Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee
The Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee provides advice and diverse perspectives on direction, management, research, outreach needs, communications and funding strategies for preventing the spread of AIS.
The committee is seeking applicants who have a range of personal and professional experience with AIS issues.
Terms: Up to three years.
Meets: Eight times a year, either online or in a central Minnesota location.
Learn more: AIS Advisory Committee webpage