The Coon Rapids Campus of Anoka Ramsey is fortunate to have approximately 26 acres of natural habitat that has been preserved for the purpose of providing an outdoor laboratory for biology and other classes. This area may also be used by other educational institutions with permission and the general public. Links to reports by students submitted in 2002 are provided for oak woodlands and prairie habitats.

The area is composed of 4 general habitat types:

1) oak woodlands,

2) old field in various stages of

    succession,

3) oak savanna, and,

4) soon to be restored prairie.

Natural succession is one process we have been observing in the Natural Area for over 30 years. For more more information and photos documenting natural succession go to Natural Succession.

For planning purposes these three areas have been divided up into six subunits (see map).  The description that follows identifies the general intended use and potential class activities and projects envisioned for each of the subunits in 2001.

Subunit 1: xeric old field succession area

Subunit 2: mesic old field succession area

Subunit 3: oak savanna

Subunit 4: prairie restoration area

Subunit 5: arboretum

Subunit 6: oak woodland

Contact Joan McKearnan for more information about the Natural Area.