Grand Marais, Minn. (6/2/2026)— Local landowners will have the opportunity to learn practical land stewardship techniques to improve the health of their woodland and shoreline properties through a new program offered by the University of Minnesota Extension this summer.
The “Northwoods Neighbors” program will take place on Tuesday afternoons in July and August, beginning July 14. Designed for landowners with both small and large acreages, the six-week course offers practical, relevant information to help residents care for their land from an ecological perspective.
Weekly sessions will cover a variety of critical local topics, including:
• Forest health, tree identification, and invasive species management.
• Septic and well care, watershed protection, and shoreline preservation.
• Yard and garden care tailored to local climate and soils.
• Wildlife habitat management and strategies for living with wildlife.
• Wildfire preparedness and adapting to a changing climate.
Each week will feature field excursions in and around Grand Marais, allowing participants to learn and apply concepts in hands-on, outdoor settings. The class will also feature guest speakers from local natural resource agencies, giving participants a chance to build a network of expert connections they can refer to long after the course ends.
“Newer landowners will especially benefit from this opportunity to meet others who are caring for land in the area,” said Sarah Waddle, Extension Educator and program instructor. “Participants will get equipped with the practical strategies and tools they need to care for their land based on their own personal goals. Whether you are wondering how to keep your woods healthy, how to protect local water quality, or how to grow a tomato in these cold and rocky soils, you’ll find something of interest and a community of fellow landowners to spur your stewardship projects onward.”
Registration is now open, and space is limited. The fee for the six-week program is $60. To register, visit z.umn.edu/neighbor. For questions or more information, contact the Cook County Extension office at 218-387-3015 or via email at mnext-cook@umn. edu.
This program is offered by Cook County Extension in partnership with Cook County Soil and Water Conservation District and other regional natural resource agencies.
