Magney-Snively Joined Old-Growth Forest Network
The Duluth natural area is now part of a national preservation initiative covering over 350 locations.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in National Parks
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The Magney-Snively Natural Area in Duluth has officially joined the Old-Growth Forest Network. This induction recognizes the 1,800-acre site for its significant environmental value.
Why it matters
The network aims to protect at least one old-growth forest in every forested county across the United States. This designation supports long-term efforts to preserve native plant communities and vital local habitats.
The area spans 1,800 acres near W Skyline Parkway, featuring 300 acres of old-growth northern hardwood forests. It is the ninth site in Minnesota to gain entry into the national registry.
The players
Magney-Snively Natural Area
This is a nearly 1,800-acre protected site located in west Duluth that includes rare northern hardwood forests.
Old-Growth Forest Network
This organization advocates for the preservation of one old-growth forest in every forested county across the United States.
City of Duluth
This local government body manages the natural area and oversees the protection of native plant communities and local habitat.
The details
Local volunteers successfully nominated the site for the network, which held an induction ceremony to celebrate the inclusion. The City of Duluth will continue its work to protect riparian forests and local ecosystems within the boundaries.
Timeline
The induction ceremony was held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.
Travel Outlook
The inclusion of the Magney-Snively Natural Area aligns with the network's national strategy to preserve forest diversity across the United States. This addition highlights the growing importance of local conservation as a tool for regional ecological stability.
Visitors can access the natural area near W Skyline Parkway for hiking and observing local, protected ecosystems. Guests are encouraged to respect local signage to help the city maintain the integrity of the newly recognized old-growth segments.
The takeaway
Preserving old-growth forests is essential for maintaining biodiversity and natural heritage in local communities. Residents can support these efforts by participating in volunteer nomination programs for future regional conservation sites.
Further reading
Learn more about protected landscapes in the National Parks section.
More information
View the Full list of network forests for details on national preservation sites.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WDIO.
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