School Forest

The Garlough School Forest of 39.22 acres was established in January 2017 and created in collaboration with the City of West St. Paul and through the State of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources, Forestry Division. The major portion of the school forest property is owned by the City of West St Paul with the balance owned by Independent School District #197. The forest cover type is mainly central hardwoods, lowland hardwoods, marsh and mowed grass. Garlough school property is adjacent to the school forest which allows for frequent student forest interactions that provide increased learning opportunities and outdoor experiences. 

The School Forest hosts a few fun features: an outdoor classroom, school garden, a tree house in Chipmunk Park, fire pit for school gatherings, rain gardens, native prairie restoration area, large white pine trees students enjoy climbing, a vernal pool, and observation circle where classes can gather. The School Forest Committee is currently working to expand a wetland marsh trail, create a map with identified areas and trails, and determine signage to support visitors. 

If you would like to learn more about the Garlough School Forest, or would like to join the School Forest Committee, contact Kim Benton, School Forest Site Coordinator. 

To learn about other school forests around the state, visit School Forests in Minnesota through MN DNR.