People In Minnesota Can Make Money Now Collecting Cones, Seeds

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' cone and seed collection program plays a crucial role in growing the tree seedlings at the State Forest Nursery that are used to reforest thousands of acres across Minnesota each year.

“Each bushel of seed or cones collected helps grow the next generation of Minnesota’s forests,” said Nicole Schafer, DNR seed and cone consultant. “We count on local seed sources and dedicated collectors to keep our reforestation efforts strong.”

Each year, people in Minnesota are asked to head outside to enjoy the great outdoors to collect cones and seeds, which is also a great way to make a little extra money because the DNR pays for high-quality cones collected from native tree species. The DNR recently reached out to the public once again to ask for help.

Get our free mobile app

Minnesota DNR Needs Cone and Seed Collectors Now

The DNR says it still needs some species of seeds and cones, and collectors should call their local DNR Forestry office before collecting to confirm which species are needed and to arrange drop-off.

Seeds and cones from single-yard trees are not recommended. Many yard trees could be cultivars or nonnative varieties, and collecting from just one tree limits genetic diversity.

Current high-demand species and payments:

• Jack pine, $60 per bushel for closed, ripe cones: Collection period September 5 through March 1.
• Black spruce, $200 per bushel for closed, ripe cones: Collection period September 15 through March.
• Red pine, $80 per bushel for closed, ripe cones: Peak collection period was in mid-September, but there might be some northern pockets with closed cones still available.

SEE NOW: Big Policy Changes Now Impacting Minnesota Sam’s Club Locations

The DNR says it's currently at capacity for acorns and black walnuts, so it is not accepting additional quantities of those species this fall and winter.

All cones must be ripe, closed, and free of stems, leaves, and debris. It's recommended that collected cones be stored in a cool, dry area and delivered to a Forestry Office drop-off location as soon as possible to maintain seed quality.

Collectors can find additional information about other species, current prices, and collection tips on the DNR’s seed and cone collection webpage.