Scientific and natural areas

Minnesota's living museum of Scientific and Natural Areas (SNAs) has a thousand stories to tell--of Minnesota's lands and waters, plants and animals, past and future.

The SNA program preserves natural features and rare resources of exceptional scientific and educational value.

Please note: SNAs are open to the public for nature observation and education, but are not meant for intensive recreational activities. As a general rule there are no trails, restrooms, or other facilities. Pets are not permitted. What else you should know about visiting a SNA.

Prairie grasslands
The grasslands of the Great Plains once covered one-third of Minnesota. Today, Minnesota's prairies are still some of the most diverse on the continent. Did you know that Minnesota boasts five major types of prairie?

Deciduous woods
The Deciduous Woods includes a variety of forest types reflected in the species-rich plant communities of this regions's SNAs.

Coniferous forest
This landscape area covers two-fifths of the state. Once mountainous, this rugged region claims both the highest and lowest points in the state. This forest area also has some of the world's largest peatlands. Find out more about these unique ecosystems.

A Statewide Map of Scientific and Natural Areas (1999) is available for purchase from Minnesota's Bookstore or a simplified map is available online here PDF (100 kb, 20" x 23").