Minnesota DNR acquires 16,000 acres of land for permanent protection

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. — The Minnesota DNR has acquired 16,000 acres of land for permanent protection.

This is one of the DNR’s largest land acquisitions in recent history, resulting in the permanent protection of nearly 16,000 acres across a 10-county area in Northern Minnesota.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to protect these forests, lakes, and waterways – now and for generations to come. This land will expand outdoor recreation access and preserve critical habitat,” DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen said. “Public lands are essential to Minnesota’s environmental stewardship, identity, and economy, and we appreciate the collaboration of our partners as we work to steward and conserve these lands for the future.”

The acquisition was made possible in partnership with The Conservation Fund, Northern Waters Land Trust.

10,675 acres is in Aitkin, Becker, Carlton, Cass, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, and Wadena counties, and 5,120 acres is in St. Louis County.

Officials say this acquisition will ensure the land will remain forested into the future.