Project Overview
The Minnesota Natural Resource Atlas is a free, web-based interactive mapping and spatial analysis tool developed by the University of Minnesota's Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI).
Designed as an accessible Geographic Information System (GIS) platform, the Atlas provides statewide access to over 500 spatial data layers across categories such as agriculture, climate, geology, land cover, water, biota, and society. Users can visualize multiple data layers simultaneously, make measurements, perform basic spatial analysis, and share map outputs without needing specialized GIS software or technical expertise.
Visit the Minnesota Natural Resource Atlas website.
Project Goals
Remove technical and financial hurdles for small organizations, local non-profits, and decision-makers working on environmental and natural resource issues by providing a free set of tools for visualizing and analyzing spatial data.
Provide direct browser access to complex spatial data without requiring GIS expertise or software installation.
- Provide access to a broad set of relevant, multidisciplinary data within the state of Minnesota.
Key Capabilities and Features
- Comprehensive Data Access: Over 500 multidisciplinary data layers covering the entire state of Minnesota.
- Integrated GIS Tools: Tools for measuring distances/areas, querying specific features, viewing feature attribute data, and layering datasets.
- Spatial Summaries: Generate basic statistical summaries and analytical insights directly on the map.
- Collaboration and Sharing: Export map images, download analysis results, or generate unique direct URLs to share customized map views with collaborators.
- Access Model: 100% free public resource available via any web browser.
Funding
Funding for development and maintenance has been provided by a direct appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature as part of the Mining and Water Innovation Initiative, the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources and the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation.