Sanctuaries are sites within Natural Areas that are closed year-round or during specific seasons. They may include the entire Natural Area, or just part of it. Sanctuaries help protect rare and sensitive natural features, such as nesting sites. Entering a closed sanctuary is in violation of state law.
The following are Natural Areas that have sanctuary closures:
Blaine Airport Rich Fen (open by research permit only)
Brownsville Bluff (posted sanctuary portion closed)
Bruce Hitman Heron Rookery (closed April 1 - July 15)
Butterwort Cliffs (closed April 1 - July 15)
Cannon River Turtle Preserve (sandbars closed May 1 - October 15)
Cherry Grove Blind Valley (below ground portion closed)
Egret Island (closed April 1 - July 15)
Hemlock Ravine (posted sanctuary portion closed)
King's and Queen's Bluffs (Queen's Bluff open by research permit only)
Lawrence Creek (posted sanctuary portion closed)
Pennington Bog (open by permit only, send an email or call 218-308-2620 to inquire)
Pig's Eye Island Heron Rookery (closed April 1 - July 15)
Pine and Curry Island (posted sanctuary portions closed April 1 through September 1)
Rush Lake Island (closed April 15 - July 15)
Wykoff Balsam Fir (posted sanctuary portions closed)