Island Lake - Crow Wing County

Nestled among the rolling hills and forest on scenic Island Lake is a beautiful property that, thanks to one couple’s vision, will forever be protected. Island Lake is a 240-acre natural lake known for its stunning vistas, prime fishing, and wildlife habitat. It’s an area relatively off the beaten path and until recently, it has remained largely undeveloped.

Unplanned development is changing the face of Island Lake and threatening the fragile habitats that provide home to countless plants and animals, including many Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Bald eagles, gray wolves, wood thrushes, ovenbirds, northern goshawks, red-shouldered hawks, four-toed salamanders, least darters, and Blanding’s turtles are but a few of the creatures that depend on the intact forests and high-quality waters of Island Lake and the surrounding area.

One Island Lake couple wanted to ensure that their children, grandchildren, and neighbors could enjoy the same views, fish the same waters, and walk amongst the towering white pines that they’ve enjoyed for years. They wanted their property to always remain what it is today: a wild and natural place. Last month the couple donated a conservation easement to the Minnesota Land Trust, forever protecting their property for future generations to enjoy.