Old Forest Extent and Changes in Minnesota 2003-2018

Abstract

Old forests are an important part of Minnesota’s landscape. Here we describe the extent and recent changes in the acreage of old forest in Minnesota by forest type. Statewide, the area of old forest increased from 3.8% of the total forest area in 2003 to 6.4% in 2018. The area of old forest increased for most forest types and across all major ownership categories, but there are exceptions, notably for forest types that occupy relatively small acreages, are actively managed for timber products, or have forest health issues.