MNA Pre Conference Field Trip 2026

Reading the Landscape with Bryan Wood

Friday, November 13

9:00 am - 3:00 / 4:00 pm

Every landscape is a reflection of the past events and current conditions that shape what it looks like - from succession and disturbance, to growing conditions, all of these factors are responsible for creating the landscape’s condition and character that you observe. During this session, we will begin to observe and familiarize ourselves with these factors to be able to start answering the questions “What happened here?” and “What is this location’s story?”

Bring rubber boots for a potential Bog Visit!!

Registration Fee (packed lunch included):

Member: $70, Non-Member, $95

Free Pre Conference Meet up

Friday, November 13

12:00 - 3:00 pm

St. Croix State Park 

30065 St Croix Park Rd

Hinckley, MN 55037

Join DNR Naturalist Mary Gustafson for a hike through beautiful St. Croix State Park! This 3-mile stroll through forest and prairie will feature the region's unique geology and rare jack pine barrens as we explore the ways this landscape has formed and changed over time. Terrain is mostly moderate walking paths but includes a couple steep sections, so bring your hiking boots! Bug spray and tick gaiters are also recommended, along with binoculars, water, or whatever you need for a walk through the north woods.

**Participants will need a Minnesota state park vehicle pass to enter the park.

While this tour is free, please let us know if you plan to attend by filling out the google form.