The University of Minnesota began its 100-year relationship with Itasca, an ecological jewel at the headwaters of the Mississippi, when a summer training program for forestry students was launched in 1909.
Field biology courses were first offered in 1935. Ever since, biology students have headed to Itasca every summer for hands-on courses in ecology, ornithology, mammalogy, aquatic biology, plant biology, genetics, entomology, photography and other subjects.
“As we celebrate Itasca’s first 100 years, we eagerly anticipate its future,” says Robert Elde, dean of the College of Biological Sciences.
Elde envisions the new field station as a hub for cutting edge research, such as remote sensing and other technologies that address ecosystem-scale questions.
Over the years, a visit to Itasca has provided a defining academic experience for many students. Since 2003, Itasca has also been the first experience for College of Biological Sciences students.
Incoming freshmen spend three days at Itasca in the Nature of Life program getting acquainted with one another, faculty and the breadth and depth of biology. Many other groups from the University and the region also use the station.
One hundred years takes a toll. The station’s rustic structures have outlived their usefulness and laboratories are obsolete. Working with Partners and Sirney Architects, the University has developed a master plan to renovate the Itasca campus.
Updated facilities will make it possible to continue offering quality educational programs, expand research, use the station year-round and generate revenue by opening the station to more University and outside groups. Funds will be sought from the state and from private donors.
