Minnesota

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/index.html)
This is the state agency responsible for the conservation and management of natural resources including wildlife and aquatic resources. Sources of information on threatened and endangered species include:

Natural Heritage and Nongame Research Program (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/nhnrp/index.html)
This program provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. A searchable database is available that can provide information on threatened and endangered species at the county or watershed level. Additionally, three of the databases (Native Plant Communities, Sites of Biodiversity Significance, and Railroad Rights-of-Way Prairies) are available as GIS shapefiles and can be downloaded at no cost from the DNR Data Deli. **A fee is charged to compile species lists and information for site-specific requests.

State Wildlife Action Plan (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/cwcs/index.html)
In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan, to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

Minnesota Historical Society (http://www.mnhs.org/index.htm)
This organization preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of Minnesota. Programs of interest include:

Historic Preservation (http://www.mnhs.org/shpo/)
This is the primary office with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The agency maintains an online database of Statewide Inventories to enable the public to locate and retrieve information about the state’s historic and cultural resources. Access to archaeological site information is restricted.

State Archives (http://www.mnhs.org/preserve/records/index.htm)
The State Archives identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Minnesota Office of the State Archaeologist (http://www.osa.admin.state.mn.us/)
The Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA) is the primary source of information on the prehistoric and historic archaeology of Minnesota. The office works to protect and preserve archaeological sites and objects, including human burial sites. The OSA works with the Minnesota Historical Society to maintain a database of archaeological sites in the state.

Natural Resources Conservation Service - Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The Cultural Resources Directory can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator.

Best Management Practices