 | | Vermillion Highlands is jointly managed by the Department of Natural Resources and the University of Minnesota, in conjunction with Dakota County. |
Vermillion Highlands is a 2,822-acre research, recreation and wildlife
management area adjacently south of UMore
Park. The property is
jointly managed by the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources, in conjunction with Dakota
County.
In May 2006 the Governor of Minnesota signed into law legislation that set aside the 2,822 acres to be a natural area in perpetuity.
As part of the legislation, the property will be deeded by the University to
the state in 2032, in conjunction with the state’s support for the University’s
new Gopher football stadium on the Minneapolis
campus.
The
Vermillion Highlands joint management team is currently focusing on long-term planning that
maximizes partner strengths in research, education, trails and recreation, and
wildlife management and hunting on the property. Vermillion Highlands will be maintained as a
natural area for public access in perpetuity. View the current draft concept master plan for Vermillion Highlands.
Learn more about:
Current and planned research
The University of Minnesota research is one of the three uses mandated by law at Vermillion Highlands. One thousand acres of the property are specifically devoted to University research, though the full extent of Vermillion Highlands will be open to University research, education and other mission-related activities. Potential research activities anticipated for Vermillion Highlands include agriculture, wildlife populations and management, ecosystem studies, recreational trail development, renewable energy resource production, climate change, and others.
Recreation
Vermillion Highlands offers seasonal recreational activities including opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing on the Lone Rock Trail loops. Visit the Vermillion Highlands Recreation page for additional information.
Wildlife Management
Seasonal hunting and trapping opportunities are available throughout the year at Vermillion Highlands for wild game including turkey, pheasant, deer, and furbearers, under the direction of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Additional information can be found on the Vermillion Highlands Wildlife Management page.
View information on Vermillion Highlands Management
View the Vermillion Highlands FAQ
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