Natural resources
Minnesota's natural beauty is even more impressive when you understand the science behind it. Extension helps Minnesotans explore, understand and conserve their environment. We teach landowners how to be stewards of their woodland or lakeshore property. And adults can join our volunteer and citizen science programs, learn how to detect and remove invasive species, and get their families more involved with nature.
On this page
Citizen science
What is citizen science?
Everyone, everywhere, can be a scientist by observing and gathering data about the world around them.
Teach citizen science
The Driven to Discover program provides educators the tools and resources needed to help engage kids in the natural world using citizen science.
Scout for bees
Bee Atlas is a citizen science volunteer program working to create a state-wide list of native bees found in Minnesota.
Track deer damage in woods
Assessing Vegetation Impacts from Deer (AVID) volunteers collect data to monitor the impacts of deer on vegetation in Minnesota woodlands.
Become a Master Naturalist volunteer
Any adult who is curious and enjoys learning about the natural world can become a Master Naturalist.
Climate and weather
Minnesota WeatherTalk
A weekly blog of Minnesota climate and weather observations.
Understanding Earth's climate
This video series discusses weather and climate, global climate change disparities, regional climate changes, and impacts of extremes.
Minnesota State Climatology Office
Gathers, manages and disseminate historical climate data in order to address questions involving the impact of climate on Minnesota and its citizens.
Forestry
Agroforestry
Learn how combining agricultural and forestry practices can improve environmental quality, productivity, and economic returns.
MyMinnesotaWoods
Timely, reliable information about woodland care and management tailored for Minnesota's family forest owners.
Learn to care for your woodlands
Forestry resources for private woodland owners.
Tree selection and care
Guidance from Extension experts on choosing, growing, and tending to your yard and woodland trees.
Invasive species
Detect aquatic invasives
AIS Detectors and Trackers are statewide volunteer invasive species surveillance programs that target high-risk areas with trained observers.
Scout for forest pests
Forest Pest First Detector volunteers detect and diagnose early infestations of invasive plants, insects and other pests.
Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center
Bringing together a wide variety of researchers, managers, and stakeholders to identify research priorities, conduct research, and implement solutions.
Track emerald ash borer
Wasp Watchers is a citizen science project that monitors a native, stingless wasp in order to detect its prey: the invasive emerald ash borer.
Identify non-native species
Citizens can help with early detection of invasive species.
Water resources
For shoreland property owners
Preventing erosion, maintaining septic systems, preserving natural landscapes
Stormwater and erosion
Minimizing effects of stormwater from urban to natural areas
Watersheds
Understanding watersheds, information for professionals
For professionals
Programs for elected officials, community leaders, citizens, natural resource professionals
Water wisely
Water conservation; watering lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs
Minnegram newsletter
The Water Resources Center’s quarterly newsletter focuses on water-related issues.