Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories features technology-enabled classrooms, well-equipped research and teaching laboratories, and a library/computer lab with high-speed internet connection for students and researchers.
Laboratories and equipment
Eleven well-equipped laboratories are located in six buildings. Seven labs are available year round. A well-developed collection of birds and mammals and a robust herbarium are available for study. The station also houses collections of algae, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. Our Research Laboratory building houses dedicated research spaces with fume hood, chemical storage, and our stock room.
Scientific equipment includes compound and dissecting microscopes, field collection gear (mammal traps, mist nets, fish/insect nets, waders etc), water quality sampling meters, and more. Motorboats, johnboats, rowboats, and canoes are available for teaching and research use on Lake Itasca and other waterbodies in the state park. Contact the Station Scientist for a complete list of available research and teaching equipment.
Think Write Library/Computer Lab
The Think Write room, located in the Biome Center, houses a physical library with hard copies of student theses, books, maps, and other Itasca relevant resources. Our Station Publications and Digital Resources page has more information about our library collections.
Station facilities are serviced by a high-speed wireless network serves, including lab spaces and faculty cabins. The network is connected to the University of Minnesota via a T1 line. Computer workstations and printers are available year round in the Biome Center.