Natural Lands are Under Threat in Northern Minnesota

Everyday, natural landscapes in Minnesota are lost forever. But together, we have the power to change that.

Land Protection Success Stories

Why we Trusted - Conservation Easement on Pancake Lake

Jane and Polly inherited their grandparents' land. When they saw development encroaching on the forests and pristine lakes in the area, they took action to protect the land and shoreline they love from the same fate.

The permanent conservation easement the sisters chose ensures that no matter who owns the land in the future, it will continue as natural habitat, supporting clean water and air, a home for wildlife, and a beautiful place for people to enjoy. Is there a place in Minnesota you'd like to see protected forever?

Why we Trusted - Land Donation on Roosevelt Lake

Roosevelt Lake in Northern Minnesota is a special place, and holds precious memories, for Linda and her family. Her parents were early nature lovers, and bought the property in 1951 with the vision of protecting it for wildlife habitat and for future generations to enjoy.

Linda and her siblings worked with Northern Waters Land Trust to donate the land for permanent protection, ensuring their parents' legacy lives on forever. The land is now managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources as an Aquatic Management Area.

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Species at-risk in Minnesota due to habitat degradation

Habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation are leading causes of biodiversity decline in Minnesota, and impact species like the Common Loon. This striking waterbird seeks clear, fish-bearing lakes with densely vegetated shorelines to raise their young. Unfortunately, each spring they find fewer miles of suitable shoreline habitat when they return from coastal waters to Northern Minnesota.

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This land protection program is a partnership between Northern Waters Land Trust and Minnesota Land Trust.

Funding for this program is provided from the Outdoor Heritage Fund as part of the Clean Water Land and Legacy Amendment.

What is a Land Trust?

Land trusts are non-governmental conservation organizations that protect habitat, promote clean water and air, and ensure that land is available for future generations.

Land Protection Options

Northern Waters Land Trust and Minnesota Land Trust partner to help landowners preserve their natural lands through two different protection options:

Conservation Easement

Land Sale or Donation

Have more questions?

Landowner Options Booklet

Email Us

Learn More!

Register for an Online Q&A Session

Join experts from Northern Waters Land Trust to learn about available protection options for Minnesota landowners. Get your conservation questions answered and identify which program is best for you during this online information session.

Upcoming Webinars

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

6-7pm

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

6-7pm

Let's Work Together For A Better Future!

Minnesota Land Trust and Northern Waters Land Trust are 501(c)3 non-profit organizations and accredited land trusts in Minnesota.

Together, we are working to preserve natural landscapes, wildlife habitats, forests, and waters through land protection projects with private landowners like you.

Ready to Protect Your Land?

If you're ready to take the next step in conserving your land, let us know you are interested in participating in one of our grant-funded programs. It's easy to get started.

Take the First Step