Trust for Public Land Partners with Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to Protect Over 300 Acres of State Forest Land
Trust for Public Land (TPL) is proud to announce the successful expansion of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest in Minnesota by 257-acres and Nemadji State Forest by 119-acres. Both properties will be managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
These significant acquisitions underscore the unwavering commitment of both groups to preserving Minnesota’s natural landscapes and enhancing public access to recreational spaces. Funding for these acquisitions was provided by the Outdoor Heritage Fund, as recommended by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.
“Minnesotans love their public lands because they provide important environmental, recreational and economic benefits, which is why the DNR is thrilled to add more than 350 acres of forest and grassland to the state forest system,” said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “We’re grateful for the partnership of Trust for Public Land in bringing these opportunities to completion.”
“These expansions not only preserve critical habitat but also enhance the quality of life for communities by providing more space for recreation and connection to nature,” said Sophie Vorhoff, Minnesota State Director with Trust for Public Land. “We are thrilled to contribute to the conservation of some of Minnesota’s treasured landscapes and maintain a critical watershed for generations to come.”
The newly acquired Dorer State Forest land, characterized by its diverse hardwood forests, scenic vistas, and rich biodiversity, will provide a crucial buffer for wildlife habitats, supports watershed protection, and offer new opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in a wide variety of activities.
Rich in biodiversity, with over 180 species of plants and animals call the region home, this property is highly regarded for turkey and deer hunting along with other pursuits such as trout fishing, hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
The strategic addition to Nemadji State Forest helps improve water quality and strengthens the management of surrounding forestlands, which are popular for hunting, snowshoeing, wildlife observation, and more recreation. The property is located in the St. Croix River watershed, one of the most ecologically significant landscapes in the Upper Midwest. Anchored by the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, the first federally designated Wild and Scenic River in the nation, this region is a haven for wildlife and a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Outdoor recreation is a significant component to the local economy and heritage, but currently only 5% of the Driftless Area region is open to the public.
Rapid growth of nearby cities like Rochester and La Crosse is resulting in increased rural development, fragmenting the landscape and increasing erosion. Agricultural conversion is also encroaching on these unique habitats and can negatively impact water quality.
The Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest, named in honor of the renowned conservationist Richard J. Dorer, spans across several counties in southeastern Minnesota and is a cornerstone of the state’s outdoor heritage. The addition of these 257 acres further solidifies its status as a premier destination for outdoor activities and environmental education.
These lands will be managed by the Minnesota DNR and open for public recreation year-round.
About Trust for Public Land
Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where they are needed most. Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,504 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, raised $110 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.7 million people to the outdoors. To learn more, visit tpl.org.
