Join us June 26 in the rare prairie, or July 10 in the scenic bluffs!
Pine Bend Bluffs is known for its stunning views of the Mississippi River
Join FMR staff to help restore a scenic river bluff-top or rare prairie, without traveling hours from the cities.
We need a few more helping hands:
- Thursday, June 26, 6-8 p.m., in the Sand Coulee Rare Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, near Hastings, and
- Thursday, July 10, 6-8 p.m., at Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area in Inver Grove Heights.
Less known than state or regional parks, Scientific & Natural Areas (SNAs) preserve natural features and rare resources of exceptional scientific and educational value and are afforded the highest level of protection in the state. While open to the public, SNAs are geared towards nature observation and education, and are not meant for intensive recreational activities. Without a picnic table or paved trail in sight, the Pine Bend and Sand Coulee SNAs allow visitors and volunteers a chance to feel hours away from the bustle of the cities, just 20-30 minutes or so south of St. Paul.
Pine Bend and Sand Coulee SNAs are particularly close to FMRs heart. FMR conservation staff worked closely with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (who operates the SNA program), local landowners and many other partners to designate and protect both areas as SNAs. FMR ecologists have been working at each for years, helping to restore their ecological communities turning thickets of invasive species to native prairie and forest and are proud to involve dozens of volunteers in their restoration annually.
Learn more and sign up via the calendar listings!
- Thursday, June 26, 6-8 p.m., in the Sand Coulee Rare Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, near Hastings, and
- Thursday, July 10, 6-8 p.m., at Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area in Inver Grove Heights.
Thank you to our project partners and funders: Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, city of Hastings, National Park Service, REI and Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund!