University of Minnesota
University of Minnesota
College of Biological Sciences
http://www.cbs.umn.edu/

Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories

Itasca is the starting point for more than the Mississippi River. It’s also the first step many biology students at the College of Biological Sciences take on their journey to becoming biologists.

Established in 1909, Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories has provided field biology courses for generations of students. And since 2006, it has been home to Nature of Life, CBS’ signature program for freshmen.

In 2009, the field station celebrated its centennial. One hundred years takes a toll. Its rustic structures have outlived their usefulness and its laboratories have become obsolete. The U of M has approved an $8 million plan to renovate the entire campus. CBS is seeking $3.7 million for the first phase of construction from the state and $1.7 million from private donors.

Thanks to our generous donors, we are close to our private fundraising goal. But it’s not too late to help rebuild Itasca for future generations of students. To make a gift, go to www.giving.umn.edu and specify the Itasca fund. Development Director Laurie Hennen would be happy to answer any questions you have about gifts. Please contact her at hennen@umn.edu or 612-624-9460.

“Itasca is the closest thing we have to a tropical rain forest in the upper Midwest.”

— Dean Robert Elde