Minnesota's County Land Management

A Unique Ownership Providing Diverse Benefits

In the United States, there are a number of different forest ownership types – including private, public, and many variations of the two. Each ownership type provides different opportunities and benefits. Several states, including Minnesota, provide an illustration of the benefits of having diverse forest ownerships. Minnesota is among a small number of states that have county managed forest land. This report explores the history and current contribution of Minnesota’s county-managed forest lands, including the diverse social, economic and environmental benefits they provide.