Rush Lake Island SNA

21 Acres Located From I-35 (Rush City Exit) W on Co Hwy 1 to access on NE side of Rush Lake. Accessible by boat. Chisago County Twp 37N Rng 22W Sec 21 Type: Coniferous Forest ECS Subsection: Mille Lacs Uplands

Description:

Rush Lake Island SNA, locally known as Crane Island, protects one of the state's largest heron rookeries, with as many as 500 active great blue heron nests each year. Black-crowned night herons are also found in this rookery. A few great egrets have begun to nest on the island in the last decade. The best time for viewing is in the spring and early summer from a boat--landing on the island is not permitted between April 15 and July 15 in order to protect the young herons. In 1974 this island became the first Scientific and Natural Area.

Plant List

Visitor notes:

Note: Closed to landing on the island between April 15 through July 15 to protect young herons.