Climate-Smart Seedling Production Network Aims to Grow More Trees for Minnesota Reforestation Efforts
On April 14, 2025 TNC received notification from the USDA that it will be terminating TNC’s Climate Smart Seedling Production Network (CSSPN) funding. While the work of this project is ending, our work with partners to reforest 1 million acres across Minnesota is continuing. Learn more about the Minnesota Million initiative.
We know that nature unites us. There are many opportunities for bipartisan progress on the challenges facing people and nature. We will continue to engage with the administration and Congress on policies to help ensure a cleaner, healthier and more prosperous future for all.
Before we can plant more trees that can hold carbon and mitigate climate change, we need more high-quality seeds and seedlings. Minnesota farmers can help.
Eligible farmers in Minnesota have an opportunity to participate in a new project to collect tree seeds and/or grow climate-smart tree seedlings.
What makes a seed “climate-smart?”
Climate change is raising average temperatures. How can we help trees in colder climates adapt to these higher temperatures? The trees in northern Minnesota, for example, are adapted to the cool climate the Northwoods have enjoyed for centuries. To increase resilience in these forests in a warming climate, reforestation efforts must prioritize trees that can withstand these warmer temperatures. By planting seedlings whose genes are adapted to thrive in a slightly warmer climate, like that of southern Minnesota, newly planted trees will have a better chance of surviving for decades in a warming Northwoods.
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and multiple partners are launching a four-year project to increase the quality and quantity of available tree seeds and seedlings while supporting farmers and delivering environmental benefits such as enhanced carbon sequestration, soil health, water quality and continued diversity of life on Earth.
You can help us reach our goal of growing millions of climate-smart seedlings in the next four years. Farmers can grow seedlings on their land and be compensated!
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