Minnesota Department of Natural Resources completes project to sow trees by helicopter

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
October 2, 2025
Category: Forestry
Region: United States, US East

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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has completed an aerial seeding project via helicopter to disperse jack pine, white pine and black spruce seeds on DNR-managed forests across the state. The flights are part of the DNR’s typical fall reforestation work, which can also include activities like direct seeding and planting, bud capping, prescribed burns, and other site preparation. Reforestation is led by the DNR’s Silviculture Program. …“Depending on each site and future goal, we choose the right mix of tree species and use every available tool to make sure we’re giving trees their best chance to grow,” said Chris Gronewold, DNR Silviculture Program coordinator. Some sites are too remote or geographically difficult to reach with a crew on the ground. In these instances, the DNR contracts a helicopter to aerially disperse seeds. 

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