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Avon Hills Forest Scientific and Natural Area
Saturday, June 9, 2018 @ 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Explore strongly-rolling morainal terrain that supports a large tract of mature mesic hardwood forest with small vernal wetlands
Where: Avon Hills Forest SNA, Avon, Minnesota
When: Saturday June 9, 2018 (10AM to 1PM)
Leaders: Michael Lee, Plant Ecologist/Botanist w/the MN DNR Biological Survey, and Jyneen Thatcher, Naturalist and MNNPS Program Chair
This 350-acre SNA lies in the heart of central Minnesota’s 65,000-acre Avon Hills region. The region is known for its constellation of high value natural and cultural features within the often strongly rolling terrain of the St. Croix Moraine.
The two units of the SNA are characterized by classic kettle and kame topography which supports extensive hardwood forest. The broader landscape that the Avon Hills SNA is located in is dotted with wet depressions, pot holes and lakes. Uplands are dominated by mesic oak forest, while lowland plant communities feature tamarack swamp and black ash seepage swamp.
In a 2009 study of 41 SNAs, Avon Hills Forest SNA ranked highest in state-designated species in greatest conservation need: many of which rely on the SNA’s interior forest conditions (large, intact tracts). Notable birds include cerulean warbler, red-shouldered hawk, veery and blue-winged warbler.
Field trips are open to MNNPS members only and pre-registration is required. To register, send an email to: Ken Arndt <ken.arndt@mnrinc.us>