The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) held a dedication of the new Icelandite Coastal Fen Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) on Saturday, September 7.

Similar to a bog, a fen is a type of wetland that is fed by a steady source of groundwater. Fens along Lake Superior are extremely rare, with the Icelandite SNA being one of only two on the North Shore. The DNR declared the area a protected site because of its rarity and geological and ecological significance. The SNA was named for the Icelandite bedrock that can be seen at this site.

 DNR employees unveil the new sign.

 The event included a guided hike along the cobble beach to view and learn about the fen.

 Refreshments were provided in the form of cupcakes.

The dedication event included guest speaker John Green, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus in Geology at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Dr. Green specializes in the geology of the Arrowhead region and (literally) wrote the book on rocks of the north shore. He spoke about the unique geological features that allowed this type of wetland to form at this location, and emphasized the importance of protecting this high-quality ecosystem.

 John Green, Ph.D., (third from left) has been mapping the geology of the North Shore for over 60 years. He shared a bit of his vast knowledge at the event.

The Icelandite SNA is located 11 miles northeast of Grand Marais on Highway 61. It also contains a tamarack-alder swamp, a spruce-fir woodland, three-quarters of a mile of shoreline, and a small stretch of the Superior Hiking Trail.

 Declaring the site a Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) affords it protection by the State of Minnesota.

 The Icelandite Coastal Fen natural area is a rare geological and ecological site.