Seminary Fen

The Strib published a story today about Seminary Fen, located in the Minnesota River valley in Chaska.  The rare calcareous fen has been acquired by the DNR and will become a scientific and natural area.  The fen was formerly privately owned and environmental groups have advocated for its protection for years.  It is still threatened by development in the area and a new bridge over the Minnesota River that may be built on the wetland.

More info about Calcareous Fens:

USGS – Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources – Bogs and Fens

Trees and Shrubs of Minnesota

The new book Trees and Shrubs of Minnesota is now available from the University of Minnesota Press.  It was written by MN NPS member Welby Smith, botanist for the Division of Ecological Resources at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.  Welby was recently given an achievement award and lifetime membership from the Minnesota Native Plant Society at our 2008 Symposium.  I haven’t seen the book yet, but am looking forward to having a look at it soon!