Cons Sci Seminar

March 20, 2026

12:00-1:00pm

In person (preferred): 335 Borlaug Hall, UMN - St. Paul Campus

Virtual: https://umn.zoom.us/j/91587399054

Natural Resources Management at Three Rivers Park District

Jami Markle

Director of Natural Resources

Abstract

Three Rivers Park District is a natural resources-based park system in suburban Hennepin County. Founded in 1957 by the Minnesota Legislature to acquire, develop and maintain regional parks, park reserves and trails, Three Rivers manages nearly 27,000 acres of parkland and over 150 miles of regional trails. A passionate staff of more than 2,000 employees (full-time, part-time and seasonal) work together to carry out the mission to promote environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural resources-based park system. Building on a 60-year legacy that includes the original acquisition of park lands, native habitat restoration, species reintroductions, and long-term monitoring, the natural resources management team at Three Rivers continues this stewardship with an eye toward the future, building resilience through impactful projects, policies, and partnerships.

Biosketch

Jami Markle is the Director of Natural Resources at Three Rivers Park District, where he oversees programs in wildlife management, water resources, forestry, horticulture, and invasive species management. Prior to his current role, he worked as a regional manager for Minnesota DNR, operations specialist for the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and field technician for the US Forest Service – all in Minnesota. Jami completed his undergrad in environmental studies at Northland College, and later earned a master’s in Natural Resources Management from University of Idaho. With deep interest in ecological stewardship, adaptive management, and interdisciplinary coordination, Jami is passionate about building connections across the Three Rivers geography to protect and restore natural systems.