Collect pine cones for DNR and earn money

The Minnesota DNR State Forest Nursery is seeking individuals to collect black spruce and jack pine cones this winter. These seeds are vital for reforesting thousands of acres each year, but the number of collectors has declined in recent seasons — creating a need for new participants.

In addition to helping sustain Minnesota’s forests, cone collectors will receive payment for high-quality cones. Currently, a bushel (about nine gallons) of healthy, viable black spruce cones fetches $100 and jack pine cones are worth $30 per bushel.

“With growing interest in reforestation, this is an exciting t...