Minnesota SNAs are designated to permanently protect native plant communities, rare species, and geological features. Approximately 170 SNA SNAs are strategically located throughout Minnesota to safeguard the unique species and geological characteristics associated with the various biomes.
In the early 1900s, the site of the Seminary Fen SNA was home to a health spa known as Mudcura, established by Dr. Henry Fischer. Dr. Fischer treated patients with various ailments with mud baths and sulfur water from the springs feeding Assumption Creek.
As interest in mud treatments waned, the spa was transferred to the Franciscan Order, which used the buildings as a seminary and school until its closure in 1965. The unused building burned down in 1997 and was demolished.
The Seminary Fen Scientific and Natural Area was established on June 28, 2028, to protect a rare and unique calcareous fen, a lowland area along Assumption Creek. These fens accumulate peat and rely on a constant supply of upwelling calcium-rich groundwater and other minerals.
While there are no established walking trails in the SNA, visitors can use game trails to access the oak savanna on the highland and the calcareous fen below.