Comments sought on state invasive species management plan

(Released by Minnesota DNR on September 3, 2009)

A draft Minnesota Statewide Invasive Species Management Plan (PDF) is now available for public review and comment until Sept. 22.

The plan was developed by the Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council, co-chaired by the Minnesota’s departments of Natural Resources (DNR) and Agriculture.

It is designed to provide a framework for addressing both aquatic and terrestrial invasive species issues in Minnesota.

The plan includes strategies and actions to address the main issues related to invasive species: prevention of new introductions into the state; early detection and rapid response to new introductions; containment of populations; and management of established populations to reduce their harm.

This draft plan reflects several years of work by many organizations from the local, state and federal government levels and a number of nongovernmental organizations.

“It will be a good framework for addressing the invasive species issue,” said Jay Rendall, DNR invasive species prevention coordinator. “However, we want to have more input on strategies and actions that could be taken in the future.”

Comments from individuals and organizations will be used to refine and expand the actions identified in the draft plan. When completed, the plan will also provide opportunities for improved coordination and partnerships between federal, state and local governments, tribes, conservation organizations and others working to minimize the impacts caused by invasive species in the state.

The draft plan and information about submitting comments is available on the DNR Web site. Printed copies can be requested by calling 651-259-5100. Written comments can be submitted in writing to Invasive Species Program, Minnesota DNR, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155, or by e-mail.

MDNR releases Spring 2009 MarketPlace Bulletin

The Minnesota DNR, Utilization and Marketing unit has released the spring 2009 edition of the MarketPlace Bulletin.  The main focus of this issue is the arrival of the emerald ash borer in Wisconsin, just one mile from the Minnesota border.  To learn more about this discovery, peruse the numerous ads, or check DNR auction dates, click on the file below.

This and past issues are also available online at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/publications/forestry/marketplace/index.html

Minnesota DNR Marketplace newsletter

The Minnesota DNR, Division of Forestry has just released the Winter 2008 issue of their excellent Marketplace Newsletter.

The current issue includes articles about the economic situation and it’s relationship to wood product markets; average stumpage prices by species; trends in woodland certification; a great list of classified ads; and much more.

Both the current issue and back issues are available here.

MN DNR’s Managing Forests for Today and Tomorrow videos

I just discovered two excellent videos by the Minnesota DNR, Division of Forestry.  They’re a bit elementary (literally–they’re designed for 5th graders and up) but give a great overview of forestry and the role of professional foresters in Minnesota.  Check them out!

Managing Forests for Today and Tomorrow: Part 1

Managing Forests for Today and Tomorrow: Part 2

You can see other videos by the DNR Division of Forestry here, including dancing grouse, forestry careers info, and much more.

Thanks Laura Duffey for sharing these links!