Highlights of the “Forest Legacy for Family Woodlots” Forum

Sawmill Inn
January 17th, 2008

Sponsored by: Itasca Economic Development Corporation, Blandin Foundation, Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, Minnesota Land Trust

Speakers from the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Land Trust presented information about trends of forest fragmentation and opportunities for “working forests” conservation easements for local forest land owners and other interested citizens in the Itasca County area. The new Itasca Forest Legacy Fund established by the Grand Rapids Area community Foundation and targeted to individuals owning forest land in the Itasca Area was introduced to forum participants.

The Forest Legacy Fund is designed to promote the concept of sustainable forests and public access to forests, provide local donors with the opportunity to become forest land stewards, and assist private forest landowners interested in conservation easements.

Additional information on how citizens can help the fund grow and ensure a legacy of stewardship on private woodlands are encouraged to contact Wendy Roy at 218-327-8855 or the Minnesota Land Trust at 651-647-9590.