Chippewa National Forest

The Chippewa National Forest can be described as one of the most ecologically significant forests in the United States due to its unique combination of ecosystems and high biodiversity. The forest features one of the most extensive wetland complexes within a national forest, comprising lakes, rivers, bogs, and peatlands, which provide critical habitats for a wide variety of plant and animal species. This wetland-rich environment helps support diverse wildlife populations, including rare and threatened species like the gray wolf and the northern goshawk.  The abundance of lakes, rivers, and streams combined with the old growth forests found here have created an oasis for an iconic American creature, the bald eagle.

The Chippewa National Forest is home to the highest breeding population of bald eagles in the lower 48 United States! Over 150 pairs of the magnificent birds live among the pines and lakes of the Forest. Eagles have been monitored on the Chippewa since 1962. Eagles are often seen soaring near the larger lakes and along the Mississippi River, or perching in old growth trees on points of land on the windy side of lakes. The bald eagle is a threatened species in Minnesota.

In addition to serving as habitat for a vast array of animal and plant species, the forest plays another crucial role in water filtration.  The health of the Chippewa National Forest has a significant impact on the Mississippi River, as the forest is located at the headwaters of this major waterway. The forest’s wetlands, lakes, and rivers act as natural filtration systems, helping to purify the water before it flows into the Mississippi. Healthy forests and wetlands absorb excess nutrients, trap sediments, and filter pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus, reducing the likelihood of harmful algal blooms downstream. This natural filtration process helps to maintain water quality not only locally but also throughout the Mississippi River watershed, which extends for thousands of miles and affects millions of people.

In an effort to maintain the health of this crucial forest ecosystem, over 1.25 million trees will be planted in 2024 to restore areas damaged by windstorms, wildfire, disease, and insect infestation.