By: Alan Kraus, Conservation Program Manager, Cannon River Watershed Partnership
We know from experience that maintaining permanent vegetative cover along the shorelines of rivers, streams and lakes leads to higher quality water and wildlife habitat. That’s why conservation groups are working with public partners and landowners to protect land along the Cannon River.
Thanks to the collaborative work of the Trust for Public Land, Goodhue County, and the Cannon River Watershed Partnership, the Minnesota DNR will add 205 acres to the Cannon River Turtle Preserve Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) and the Cannon Valley Trail (CVT) will add 9 acres to this public trail system. The effort will help protect habitat important for turtles, such as Blanding’s turtle, one of Southeast Minnesota’s rarest turtle species. It will also provide opportunities for wildlife-based recreation including hiking, hunting, fishing, bird-watching, and nature observation.
Read the full press release here: CRWP-TPL – CR Turtle Preserve SNA Press Release
