Declines in native vegetation, pollinator s, and biodiversity in Minnesota are occurring due to a combination of factors, including development, climate change, invasive species, pollutants, excess nutrients, and changes in land management practices. These declines have been raising concerns with Minnesota residents and the conservation community.
In the spring of 2023, state legislation directed the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) to “work with state and federal agencies, Tribal Nations, academic institutions, local governments, and stakeholders to develop recommendations for establishing and enhancing native vegetation in order to provide benefits for water quality, soil conservation, energy conservation, and climate adaptation, resiliency and mitigation." Over 100 conservation partners collaborated on a Native Vegetation Advisory Team Report and action steps.
To maintain momentum the advisory team is transitioning to a "Native Vegetation and Biodiversity Collaborative" and will further their efforts through five subteams listed below. The sub-teams are planning to meet during a summit in January of 2027 to report on progress. Please contact Dan Shaw at dan.shaw@state.mn.us if you are interested in participating in the collaborative though sub-teams or being part of the January summit.
Sub-teams:
1) Native Seed Mixes, Planting Templates, and Seed Supplies
2) Restoring Keystone Processes and Evolving Restoration Methods
3) Building Landscape Connections and Benefitting at-risk Wildlife
4) Restoration and Biodiversity Trainings and Collaboration
5) Building Urban Biodiversity and Resiliency
Related Tools and Programs:
BWSR's Native Vegetation Establishment and Enhancement Guidelines
Pollinator and Biodiversity toolbox
What’s Working for Conservation
Habitat Friendly Utilities Program