Find Your Local Network
There are local networks throughout the state, some based in areas, others based on topics. Choose the one that best fits your needs, or if there isn't one, contact us to work on starting your own!
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Thank you for your interest in the mentorship program, also known as our Connections Program! This is an informal mentorship program intended to create a network of women working in natural resources in MN of all stages of their careers and background.
The intended audience is women (please see inclusivity statement below) working in natural resources (forestry, wildlife, etc.) in Minnesota. This form is used to record your interest in the program and to eventually connect you with a potential mentee/mentor.
For many of us, mentors have played an invaluable role in building our careers. Finding a mentor without a support network can be difficult, as it’s often dependent on pre-existing connections. This introduces an issue of accessibility to network development for women in natural resources, as we are still a minority in the profession. Our goal with this mentorship program is to create an informal network of women working in natural resources to support women in all stages of their careers, so that we can help to improve the accessibility of finding a mentor that you connect with, both personally and professionally.
Inclusivity statement: In alignment with the Women’s Forest Congress, we recognize that there is a need – arguably today more than ever – for more diverse perspectives to help ensure the health and future of forests. The Minnesota Women’s Woodland Network is an open and inclusive group – trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming participants are welcome, as are women and allies of all ages, perspectives, cultural backgrounds, professional levels, abilities, and education.
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The Northeast MNWWN is a mixture of women landowners and area natural resources professionals. The area served by the Northeast MNWWN includes the counties of Cook, Carlton, Pine, Lake and St. Louis.
This local network does not meet regularly but hosts field events and other activities and shares information through email.
Contact:
Anna Stockstad, Extension Forester with UMN Extension
northeast@mnwwn.org -
We are thrilled to announce the reactivation of the Metro Area Network for the Twin Cities! Over the years, the Metro Network has hosted quarterly discussion meetings as well as women’s chainsaw safety and maintenance classes, tours, native tree and plant ID walks, and even a nature-focused book club. Now, we’re eager to bring back those offerings — and introduce new programming driven by the interests of Metro-area members, like you!
If you live in or near the Metro area and are passionate about woodlands, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you're a seasoned landowner, a curious beginner, or someone who just loves being outdoors — there’s a place for you!
Please email metro@mnwwn.org to get involved, share ideas, and receive updates as we revive this vibrant local network.
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*Currently not active*
The Brainerd Lakes Area network is a new network that covers the central lakes area including the counties of Aitkin, Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Mille Lacs, and Wadena and other nearby counties. The meetings were held at Northland Arboretum in Brainerd. Please see events calendar or email Ginger for more details.
Contact:
Ginger Kopp
kopp839@gmail.com -
*Currently not active*
Angela S. Gupta, Regional Extension Educator
University of Minnesota
agupta@umn.edu
Office phone: 507-280-2869, 888-241-4536 -
Women of the Woods
Women of the Woods is a group of women in north central Minnesota who, for the most part live in isolated, rural areas near communities such as Bemidji, Bigfork, Dora Lake, Inger, Max, Northhome, Squaw Lake, and Wirt. They meet twice a month (even in the winter!) for outdoor activities, friendship, and support. Please contact them if you'd like to join them or get their electronic newsletter.
Contact:
Pat Sievertson
garden_queen2004@yahoo.com
218.659.2157
Deer River, MN