The Itasca Station leverages its unique location within Minnesota’s oldest and highly visited state park to foster meaningful engagement with the public, local communities, and creative collaborators. Through regular outreach programs in partnership with park naturalists, the station connects visitors with scientific discovery and environmental stewardship. Our commitment to community impact is further reflected in summer internships that provide local high school graduates with hands-on research experience, supported by donor generosity. Expanding our reach beyond the park, the station also participates in the Big River Continuum — an innovative exchange that unites artists, scientists, and communities along the Mississippi River in a shared exploration of ecological and cultural connections.