Road Easement Access Rights Project

For many years, DNR lands and roads have been intermingled with those of other governmental agencies and, in some parts of the state, with those of large timber companies. The roads provided access to the lands for forestry management and were, at DNR's discretion, usually kept open to the public for recreational purposes. The roads were often maintained cooperatively by DNR, other government entities, and other users. Now, many of the timber company lands are being sold to private individuals who may not be as open to allowing DNR land managers and the public to use the roads to access public lands.

In 2005 the Minnesota Legislature passed Minn § 89.715, Alternative Recording for State Forest Roads. This statute provides the DNR an efficient and consistent process for claiming and recording its prescriptive rights for state forest roads.

The DNR is currently conducting a statewide project to secure easement rights to DNR lands and roads to ensure future management, recreational access to state lands and providing year-around access to the public.

Listing of the current county status and supporting documents see the project status page.

Any questions contact:
Jerry Bourbonnais
MN DNR Forestry Road Easement Specialist
500 Lafayette Rd St. Paul,
MN 55155
office phone: 651-259-5252
cell phone: 612-390-4012
email: jerry.bourbonnais@state.mn.us