Advisory group appointment opportunities
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) relies on public advisory groups 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.
Currently seeking applications for the following groups:
- Fisheries Work Groups
- Catfish Fisheries Work Group
- Esocid Fisheries Work Group
- Panfish Fisheries Work Group
- Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee
- Lake of the Woods Fisheries Input Group
- Natural Heritage Advisory Committee
- Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
- Recruit, Retain, Reactivate Advisory Council
- Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee
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 Groups Webpage and sign up for updates.
The DNR aims for each advisory group to include people from a diverse mix of backgrounds, perspectives, locations and experiences to lend a breadth of knowledge and insight to the groups.
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Fisheries Work Groups
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Fisheries work groups advise the DNR about important fisheries and wildlife topics. This year, the following work group have openings:
Catfish Fisheries Work Group
The Catfish Fisheries Work Group discusses catfish-related management and research topics to learn about and contribute to understanding of catfish management and advise DNR staff on management issues and research.
The group is seeking applicants who represent a broad range of interests and viewpoints.
Terms: Two or three years. Members can reapply but can serve no more than two consecutive terms.
Meets: Several times a year, with at least two in-person meetings annually.
Esocid Fisheries Work Group
The Esocid Fisheries Work Group discusses northern pike and muskellunge-related management and research topics to learn about and contribute to understanding of pike and muskie management and advise DNR staff on management issues and research.
At this time, the group is seeking applicants who are specifically interested in northern pike.
Terms: Three years with the option to renew for a second term.
Meets: Typically four times annually, with up to two in-person meetings.
Panfish Fisheries Work Group
The Panfish Fisheries Work Group discusses panfish-related management and research topics to expand understanding of panfish management and advise DNR staff on management issues and research.
Terms: Three years with the option to renew for a second term.
Meets: Typically twice per year, once in person.
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Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee
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The Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee (FWAC) is charged with completing an annual report submitted to the DNR Commissioner and the Minnesota Legislature. On even numbered years the report focuses on biennial budget outcomes achieved from game and fish fund expenditures and on odd-numbered years, the report focuses on outcomes related to protecting habitat; fish and wildlife population management; monitoring and research; and communications and engagement.
The committee is seeking applicants who are Minnesota residents and who have purchased a personal or commercial Minnesota hunting, fishing or trapping license since Jan. 1 of the previous calendar year or licensed their vehicle with an active critical habitat license plate.
FWAC is one of several advisory groups that works on fish and wildlife topics. To apply for other fish and wildlife related advisory groups, please visit this page.
Terms: Two or three years, members are eligible to serve up to six consecutive years. The committee is seeking to fill about 10 slots in 2027.
Meets: Monthly. Committee members work on their own time to produce an annual report.
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Lake of the Woods Fisheries Input Group
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The Lake of the Woods Fisheries Input Group discusses fisheries issues, reviews technical information, weighs management alternatives, and provides practical counsel on lake management in a smaller group setting.
The group is seeking applicants who have an interest in Lake of the Woods fisheries management and who are representative of the stakeholder group for which they are applying.
Terms: One management planning cycle (10 years), until they no longer are representative of the stakeholder group for which they applied, or until they no longer wish to serve as a member of the group. Open seats include one for someone who represents a resort based out of the south shore of Lake of the Woods and a local angler from Lake of the Woods or Roseau County who does not have a direct business or economic interest tied to angling on Lake of the Woods.
Meets: Annually in late winter during non-planning years and up to eight times in planning years.
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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. Members make recommendations to help protect high quality prairies, forests, wetlands and other native habitats, and the diversity of plants and animals they support.
The committee is seeking applicants who live in Minnesota and who have knowledge, demonstrated dedication or experience related to natural resource management, conservation biology, ecological education and outreach, or other aspects of Minnesota’s natural heritage.
Terms: New member appointments will begin in January 2027 and are for three-year terms.
Meets: First Wednesday of every other month.
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Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
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The Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee (PTLAC) provides recommendations to enhance promotion, coordination and accountability throughout the implementation of the 25-year Parks and Trails Legacy Plan.
The committee is seeking applicants with backgrounds in outdoor recreation, outdoor skills building, youth programs, education, parks and trails accessibility, natural resources, marketing, integrated technology, tourism, or business, all with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
Terms: Two years, with the potential of being reappointed for a maximum of three terms.
Meets: Every other month (six times annually) at parks and trails facilities throughout the state.
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Recruit, Retain, Reactivate Advisory Council
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The Recruit, Retain, Reactivate Advisory Council (R3 Council) aims to increase the number of hunters and anglers in Minnesota and build support and awareness of hunting and angling traditions and opportunities.
The council is seeking applicants who are active leaders in the hunting and fishing community, with a vested interest in efforts to grow participation in hunting, angling and trapping.
Terms: At least two years.
Meets: Quarterly and as needed for working group meetings.
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Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee
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The Statewide Aquatic Invasive Species Advisory Committee (AISAC) provides advice and diverse perspectives on direction, management, research, outreach needs, communications and funding strategies for preventing the spread of AIS.
The committee is seeking applicants who have a range of personal and professional experience with AIS issues.
Terms: Up to three years. The committee is looking to fill six to seven seats.
Meets: Eight times a year, either online or in a central Minnesota location.
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Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund (ENRTF) Community Grant Program Advisory Council
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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking applicants for the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Community Grant Program Advisory Council | Minnesota DNR. The DNR encourages Minnesotans interested in serving on the advisory council to submit an online application.
This advisory council will provide strategic guidance to the recently authorized ENRTF Community Grant Program. By reviewing grant policies and guidelines, program structures, and recipient and program/project eligibility, the council will promote transparency, accessibility, equity, and effectiveness in the allocation of ENRTF Community Grant Program resources.
Deadline: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on April 10, 2026.
How to apply:
If you are already registered on the Engage with DNR website, you can access the application without following instructions below.
To register on the Engage with DNR website, follow these instructions:
- Go to the homepage of this website: Engage with DNR homepage
- On the website, click on “Register” in the upper righthand side.
3. After clicking on “Register,” create your personal account. This is required.
4. Sign in to your new account.
5. Access the application.
6. Complete and submit the application.