Advisory group appointment opportunities
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) relies on public advisory groups and task forces as one way to work with Minnesotans to achieve the department's mission. Some are open-ended and others are limited in duration. Membership design differs according to the purpose and sometimes provisions in statute. Participation in one of these appointed roles is one way that Minnesotans can contribute ideas and perspectives.
The DNR's advisory groups are successful because of people like you. If you would like to receive a notice when new opportunities arise, go to the DNR’s Advisory Group Webpage and sign up for updates.
Current open opportunities:
- Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee
- Governor's Council on Minnesota's Coastal Program
- Natural Heritage Advisory Committee
- Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
The DNR seeks inclusive and well-rounded advisory committees, encompassing differences including but not limited to race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, socioeconomic status, education, marital status, language, age, gender, sexual orientation, mental or physical ability, life experience, ideas, knowledge and learning styles.
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Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee
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Aquatic invasive species present one of the state’s most pressing natural resource issues. Preventing the spread of zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, invasive carp, starry stonewort and other invasive plants and animals is of critical environmental, recreational and economic importance.
The Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee (AIS) is a core element of the DNR’s partnership approach to addressing aquatic invasive species. The committee comprises 15 members who serve three-year terms.
The DNR established the advisory committee in 2013 to help guide the agency’s AIS prevention and management activities. Members provide advice and diverse perspectives on programmatic direction, emerging research needs, communications, and funding strategies.
Current members have a range of personal and professional experience with AIS issues, including prevention, decontamination, public awareness, and control activities. The committee also reflects the range of private, nonprofit and public sector organizations that are actively engaged in AIS issues.
Applications are open. You can apply here. Deadline to apply is September 22, 2023.
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Governor's Council on Minnesota's Coastal Program
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The Governor’s Council on Minnesota’s Coastal Program has 15 open seats. We encourage Minnesotans living in Carlton, Cook, Lake and St. Louis Counties or on the Fond du Lac or Grand Portage Reservations to apply.
The Governor’s Council on Minnesota’s Coastal Program advises the DNR on matters related to Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program. Much of the emphasis is on reviewing and recommending grant projects. With the council’s help, the Coastal Program has awarded more than $14 million in funding to more than 700 projects since 1999.
Applications are open. You can go here for more information on how to apply. There is no deadline.
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Natural Heritage Advisory Committee
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The Natural Heritage Advisory Committee (NHAC) advises the DNR on issues relating to sustaining the state’s natural heritage, biological diversity and ecosystem services.
NHAC members make recommendations to help protect high quality prairies, forests, wetlands and other native habitats, and the diversity of plants and animals they support.
NHAC applicants should have knowledge, demonstrated dedication or experience related to natural resource management, conservation biology, ecological education and outreach, and other aspects of Minnesota’s natural heritage.
Applications are open. You can go here for more information on how to apply. Deadline to apply is September 22, 2023.
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Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
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People with experience, passion and advocacy for Minnesota parks and trails can help to advise and guide agencies in their efforts to provide welcoming, engaging, accessible, rewarding and sustainable outdoor recreation experiences for everyone.
The coordinating partners of the Parks and Trails Legacy Fund, which includes the Metropolitan Council, the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, seek qualified applicants to serve on the Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee. The mission of the Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee is to “champion the 25-year Parks and Trails Legacy Plan by providing recommendations to enhance promotion, coordination, and accountability throughout implementation of the plan.”
Among the expertise and perspectives desired for committee members are backgrounds in youth programs, natural resources, outdoor skills building, education, park and trail accessibility, resource management, marketing, new technology, tourism, and business, all with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. Terms are two years, with the option of being re-appointed for a maximum of three terms. The committee meets every two months at park and trail facilities around the state. Although there is an option to attend remotely, committee members are strongly encouraged to attend meetings in person, as past and current members note that in-person attendance results in more effective committee meetings. Meetings typically include tours of state and regional parks and trails and provide members with the opportunities to experience the impact of projects and programs supported by the Parks and Trails Legacy Fund.
Applications are open. You can apply here. Deadline to apply is September 22, 2023.