Minnesota DNR Has Initiated Red Pine Cone Collection
The state is paying residents to collect red pine cones to address a long-term shortage of reforestation seedlings.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Botany
Live Poll
Should state agencies rely on public collection programs to meet forestry and reforestation goals?
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has begun paying the public $95 per bushel for red pine cones to help meet reforestation needs. This initiative follows nearly a decade of poor seed yields that created a significant shortage of seedlings for state forests.
Why it matters
The state requires nearly 1 million red pine seedlings annually to support reforestation efforts across 2,000 acres of forest land. Collecting these cones is critical for processing seeds to replenish nursery stocks after years of low production.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources maintains a goal of purchasing 1,000 bushels of red pine cones. This procurement effort supports the annual requirement of 1 million seedlings needed to reforest 2,000 acres of land.
The players
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for managing the land and natural resources of Minnesota, including reforestation and forest health programs.
State Forest Nursery
Located in Akeley, this facility serves as the primary hub for processing harvested tree seeds and growing seedlings for state forestry projects.
The details
Interested members of the public must register as a supplier with the state before gathering and selling clean, ripe, and closed cones. Once collected, these cones are processed at the State Forest Nursery to extract seeds for future nursery bed sowing.
Timeline
September 2026: The collection period for red pine cones officially begins.
October 2026: The collection period for red pine cones ends.
The Big Picture
The red pine recovery effort functions as an essential input for the State Forest Nursery seed processing infrastructure. By securing a reliable supply of seeds, the department effectively bridges the gap between fluctuating harvest yields and long-term forest management goals.
The initiative offers local residents an opportunity to participate directly in state forestry work by collecting and selling cones for a set price. Collectors must strictly adhere to state quality standards and registration requirements to ensure the seeds are viable for nursery use.
The takeaway
This bumper crop projection offers a rare opportunity to replenish forest resources after a decade of poor yields. Residents interested in participating should consult state guidelines early to ensure their harvested cones meet the specific ripeness and quality requirements.
Further reading
For more information on state reforestation initiatives, visit the Botany section.
More information
To register as a supplier or review collection requirements, visit the DNR seed and cone collection information page.
Live Poll
Should state agencies rely on public collection programs to meet forestry and reforestation goals?
