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.
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.
Current list of open opportunities:
- Natural Heritage Advisory Committee (NHAC)
- Deer Advisory Committee (DAC)
- Catfish Work Group
- Lake Kabetogama Input Group
- Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee (FWAC)
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.
-
Natural Heritage Advisory Committee
Share Natural Heritage Advisory Committee on Facebook Share Natural Heritage Advisory Committee on Twitter Share Natural Heritage Advisory Committee on Linkedin Email Natural Heritage Advisory Committee link
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.
Applicants should be Minnesota residents with knowledge, demonstrated dedication or experience related to natural resource management, conservation biology, ecological education and outreach, and other aspects of Minnesota’s natural heritage.
New member appointments will begin in January 2026 and extend through December 2027. Applications are open for 2025 and will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. Friday, October 3, 2025.
-
Wildlife and Fisheries Groups
Share Wildlife and Fisheries Groups on Facebook Share Wildlife and Fisheries Groups on Twitter Share Wildlife and Fisheries Groups on Linkedin Email Wildlife and Fisheries Groups link
Wildlife and Fisheries groups advise the DNR about important fisheries and wildlife topics.
The Deer Advisory Committee (DAC) advises the DNR on statewide deer management, including policies, research and monitoring priorities, programs, and regulations.
The DNR has six fisheries work groups, each focused on a different species. The groups meet several times each year to discuss research, population, harvest trends and fisheries management with DNR fisheries staff. Members represent a variety of viewpoints and work together to address topics such as recreation, water quality, fish habitat, fish management and effects on local economies. This year, the catfish work group has openings.
Large lakes fisheries input groups recruit when there is a need to update a management plan for one of the state’s 10 “large lakes.” The groups advise the DNR on issues relevant to the state’s management of the lake in question, along with bringing stakeholder perspectives to the DNR and informing their constituencies of the planning process. This year, the DNR is recruiting for the Lake Kabetogama group.
Applications are open for 2025 and will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. Friday, October 3, 2025.
-
Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee
Share Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee on Facebook Share Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee on Twitter Share Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee on Linkedin Email Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee link
The Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee (FWAC) replaces the citizen oversight committees that operated from 1994 to 2024.
The Fish and Wildlife Advisory Committee reviews annual outcomes achieved from game and fish fund expenditures and makes recommendations to the legislature and the commissioner related to fish and wildlife investments and policy in general. Nearly $100 million is expended from the Game and Fish Fund each year. The revenue supporting these expenditures is primarily the product of hunting and fishing license sales, federal reimbursements, and a sales tax on state lottery tickets. Minnesota residents with a hunting, fishing or trapping license or an active critical habitat license plate can apply.
Applications are open for 2025 and will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. Friday, October 3, 2025.