The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Using science to guide our work, The Nature Conservancy has been working to conserve Minnesota’s most significant prairies, forests, lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands for nature and people since 1958.

Yet the threats to our natural environment continue to accelerate. A growing population - and corresponding demands for food, water and energy - coupled with a changing climate put increasing pressure on our lands and water.

How We Work

To combat these threats, we must increase the pace and scale of conservation. At carefully selected locations, we are demonstrating new solutions that can be applied more broadly to create a healthier and more sustainable future for Minnesota.

Conservation Highlights    

• Grasslands – At 24,500 acres, the Glacial Ridge Project is the nation’s largest prairie and wetland restoration effort.
• Forests – The Conservancy played a leading role in supporting the 187,000-acre Upper Mississippi Forest - the state's largest-ever conservation project.
• Freshwater – The Conservancy is working with landowners along the Root River, a Mississippi River tributary, to improve wildlife habitat and water quality.

Governance

A volunteer Board of Trustees advises and assists the Conservancy on strategic issues and goals in Minnesota.