DNR Question of the Week

Date

Question

Answer

11/18/08

The red pine is the Minnesota state tree. How did it earn this distinction?

The legislature felt it was important to adopt a state tree as a symbol of the history and physical characteristics of the state and did so in 1953. The red pine, or Norway pine, is native to Minnesota and is found in pure stands in many parts of the state. In the early history of Minnesota, red pine timber played an important part in the state economy. Most importantly, the red pine is a sturdy and majestic tree.

- Rick Klevorn, DNR Division of Forestry