Join us as we learn how to collect cones for use by the MN DNR in reforestation projects to build more climate resilient forests

Join us to learn how to collect seeds and cones for the Minnesota State Forest Nursery to support reforestation projects that grow more climate resilient forests. Guided by Minnesota DNR staff, volunteers will work outdoors in a 3-acre seed orchard to hand pick or use pruning shears to collect cones from jack pine. Following this training and collection day, volunteers will be empowered to collect seeds on their own, or join other group collection events in the future.

RSVP here

We will meet at the General Andrews Forest Tree Nursery in Willow River, MN. An introduction to cone collection will be provided indoors by MN DNR staff. There are bathrooms and access to water in the building. The group will take a ten-minute hike to reach a Jack pine seed orchard and collect cones for an hour before returning back to the nursery training building for lunch (lunch not provided). Following lunch, the group will return to the Jack pine seed orchard to continue cone collection until the end of the workday. It is suggested for volunteers to bring a water bottle, lunch, warm clothes that are okay to get dirty, waterproof boots, and waterproof gloves. In the case of poor weather, the event will be held indoors where volunteer can assist in picking cones off cut branches.

Cost: None

Vehicle Admission: None

Bathrooms: Yes

Where to Meet: General Andrews Forest Tree Nursery (follow link rather than address)

Recommended items to bring/wear:

• Water bottle
• Lunch
• Warm clothes that are okay to get dirty
• Waterproof boots
• Waterproof gloves

Cancelation Information:

Participants will be notified via email if the program is canceled.