Natural Resources Research Institute

10/26/2026

Did you know? Deer-vehicle collisions spike dramatically in the week after daylight savings time ends. Among other reasons, turning our clocks back pushes peak commuter times later in the day - when deer are more active.

Some simple tips for safer driving this fall:
• Use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic to spot eye shine or movement early.
• Scan the shoulders of the road, as deer often travel in groups; if you see one, expect more to follow.
• Slow down during dawn and dusk.

Be safe out there!

Drivers hit deer 16% more the week we turn our clocks back, and the last three months of the year see the highest number of deer collisions, experts say.

10/19/2026

City of Duluth crews paired up with NRRI to plant fast-growing recently in West Duluth! Developed at at NRRI, these non-GMO hybrid poplars can grow up to 10 ft/year - rapidly bringing back street shade lost to Emerald Ash Borer. Researchers will use this planting to test long-term street tree succession strategies, with the goal of healthier, more resilient urban forests in the future.
https://bit.ly/4yC0QGx

Crews planted 25 InnovaTrees along South 59th Avenue West Wednesday morning to replace trees lost to emerald ash borer.

10/08/2026

Can small-diameter balsam fir become the next big thing in mass timber?

NRRI and partners are taking low-value wood and thermally modifying it into durable, moisture-resistant building materials. The result? Stronger mass timber, reduced wildfire risk, and new economic value for regional forests.

Small Trees, Big Impact: Transforming forest restoration byproducts into next-gen mass timber >> https://nrri.umn.edu/research/projects/masstimber

10/05/2026

Join the NRRI team!

The Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) at the University of Minnesota is hiring an Environmental Scientist to contribute to ongoing environmental monitoring, water/wastewater treatment technologies, and molecular biology projects in the Environmental Microbiology & Biotechnology Lab.

The successful applicant will participate in a wide variety of research activities across several projects, with duties including chemical and molecular biology analyses, fieldwork campaigns, and assistance in laboratory management and training of junior scientists. A strong emphasis will be placed on laboratory safety, quality control, and research integrity across all job functions.

Key Responsibilities:
🧬 Molecular Biology: Execute workflows including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR/dPCR, and sequencing.
🧪 Chemical Assays: Perform analyses via IC, HPLC, and spectrophotometry with strict QA/QC standards.
🚣 Field Operations: Lead field sampling, monitoring, and site maintenance outdoors across seasons.
📊 Data & Mentorship: Manage data using analytical tools, contribute to publications, and mentor student researchers.

Priority Deadline: The application review will begin on 10/15/2026.

If you have a strong background in lab and field research, and you're passionate about natural resource stewardship we’d love to have you on our team in Minnesota.

Application and information: https://nrri.umn.edu/employment-opportunities

09/29/2026

"With patience, Minnesota-grown research can help break this cycle. The University of Minnesota’s Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is now able to test available ore’s compatibility with new technology. That could make a big difference in securing private financing for these projects."

Offloading risks onto taxpayers is one way. Advancing bankable knowledge is a better way.

09/28/2026

NRRI congratulates Mesabi Metallics, Minnesota’s iron industry, and the communities and workers who have built and sustained this industry for generations. We look forward to continuing to support the future of American iron and steel through research, testing and partnership. https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/28/trump-steel-plant-iowa.html

Trump's announcement with Mesabi Metallics comes as Americans' souring views of the economy are poised to shape the upcoming midterm election.

09/18/2026

Did you know: Minnesota has over 40 native deciduous tree species (and one unique native coniferous tree - looking at you Tamarack!) that experience a seasonal color change, ranging from the brilliant crimson of maples to the warm golden-browns of oaks. It's looking like it may be a good leaf peeper season in MN. Check out the DNR Fall Color Finder in this article 🍁 🍂 👀

The DNR has a Fall Color Finder to help leaf peepers plan their outings.

09/12/2026

Check out this video breakdown of how scientists are tracking unprecedented cyanobacteria blooms across Lake Superior and what it means for the future of the Great Lakes.

The video highlights the complex issue with the current state of harmful algal blooms in Lake Superior, and recommendations to address it. Recorded at a Burke Center Water Summit, held in June 2026 in Duluth, MN. The summit convened more than two dozen U.S. and Canadian researchers, resource managers and stakeholders to share finding and concerns about the algal bloom issue and identify recommendations for how to respond.

https://bit.ly/4iOFQrO

09/11/2026

From lake to table: Northern Minnesotans are turning the invasive rusty crayfish into a local delicacy. https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/09/09/invasive-crayfish-turned-into-a-delicacy

Rusty crayfish have invaded more than 300 northern Minnesota lakes. Can Midwestern appetites help manage a destructive invasive species?