450+ Layers of Minnesota, No GIS Software Required
The Minnesota Natural Resource Atlas is a free, interactive mapping tool developed in part by University of Minnesota researchers at the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) — no software installation or GIS training needed to start exploring.
What This Data Shows
With more than 450 multidisciplinary data layers covering the entire state, the Atlas is built for exploration and basic analysis rather than heavy-duty GIS work — measuring distances, querying features, running basic summaries, and combining layers directly in a browser.
That makes it a strong fit for early-stage research, public-facing projects, or anyone who needs a quick answer about a place in Minnesota without opening ArcGIS Pro or QGIS at all.
Data Benefits
No Software or Account Required
The Atlas runs entirely in a browser, with no sign-in, license, or installation — a real advantage over U-Spatial's other data resources when you just need a quick look.
Share a Custom View With a Link
Build a specific combination of layers and generate a unique URL that lets anyone else open the exact same map view, no file transfer needed.
Backed by UMN Research
The Atlas is developed in part by the University of Minnesota's Natural Resources Research Institute, alongside collaborators including Minnesota Sea Grant. Get a level of institutional grounding beyond a typical third-party map tool.
Getting Access
The Atlas is a free public resource, available to anyone — no University affiliation, account, or software required.
Data Resources
MN Natural Resources Atlas FAQs
Quick answers to what people ask us most about using the Atlas.
Do I need a UMN account to use the Atlas?
No — it's a free public resource.
The Atlas is openly available to anyone, whether or not you're affiliated with the University of Minnesota.
How often is the data updated?
Quarterly.
The Atlas's underlying data layers are refreshed on a quarterly basis, with new layers and updated years added as they become available.
Can I export data or just view it?
You can export results and share custom map views.
While the Atlas isn't built for bulk data downloads, you can export analysis results and map images, or generate a unique URL that lets others view your specific custom map.
Can I rely on this for official or regulatory decisions?
Treat it as a research and exploration tool first.
Like most browser-based GIS tools built for broad public use, the Atlas is best suited for general research, education, and public communication rather than legal, regulatory, or navigational decisions. For those, verify against the original authoritative data source.
How is the University of Minnesota involved in this project?
Through the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI).
Researchers at NRRI, part of the University of Minnesota Duluth, helped develop the Atlas alongside collaborators including Minnesota Sea Grant.
What It Costs
Completely Free for Everyone
The Atlas is a public resource, not a U-Spatial license or subscription. Anyone — University-affiliated or not — can use the exact same tool at no cost.
Ready to Explore the Atlas?
Jump straight into the interactive map — no download or account required.