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What is a Wildlife Management Area?
According to the DNR, a Wildlife Management Areas are “lands and waters that have a high potential for wildlife production, public hunting, trapping, fishing, and other compatible recreational uses.”
WMAs are devoted to the conservation of wildlife species through habitat restoration. They are usually open to the public for wildlife focused recreation, such as birding, trapping, and hunting.
How do WMAs differ from state parks?
In Minnesota, state parks are created with recreation as the primary consideration. They include more facilities for active recreation, such as trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Wildlife Management Areas differ because conservation is prioritized over recreation. WMAs usually do not have facilities beyond a parking area and some signs.
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