MN Nature in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is thrilled to bring you outdoor activities for the first week in May! Happy spring! Enjoy the blossoms while they last!
ALL events FREE unless otherwise noted. If you sign up, volunteer, romp and play, please be sure to tell ’em that “Em En Nature” (MN Nature) sent ya, and remember to hashtag your pics as #MNnature — Thank you and enjoy! #MNnature
Visit our Facebook page @mnnature for even more fun events around Minnesota!
* * *
Monday, May 1 — Happy May Day!
Shore Steelheading Clinic, North Shore*
*Exact date and location TBD, depending on Steelhead run Whether you’re new to rainbow trout fishing or an intermediate Steelheader looking to improve technique, this one day clinic is for you. Topics include steelhead migration, spawning, equipment, safety tips, rigging, presentation and technique (with focus on fly fishing and drift fishing with either a fly rod or spinning setup). Each angler will receive a binder of information. MN fishing license, trout stamp and your own equipment required. This event is by Lisa Murphy of the MN Steelheader’s, Women on the Fly. For details and to register contact Lisa at womenontheflyms@gmail.com.
Panfish Workgroup Meeting
Noon-3 pm This will be a working business meeting of the DNR Panfish Workgroup. The Panfish Workgroup is a group of citizen volunteers who provide input to DNR on panfish management. While public are welcome to observe this meeting, there will be no formal public input opportunities at this point.
Brainerd DNR Office, 1200 Minnesota Drive, Brainerd,
* * *
Tuesday, May 2
Clean Water and a Healthy Environment March
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm weekdays, and on Saturdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am, May 2 through May 13. March to the Mansion for Clean Water and a Healthy Environment! 11 Days of Advocacy, Starting May 2nd. Bring your signs and creativity, family and friends! Our mission is to remind the Governor, “Don’t forget our environment!” We are counting on you. Schedule and more info.
Eco Steward Projects –-Volunteer Opportunity
5:30-7:00 pm Please join us to volunteer at Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary! Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary is home to a diverse native prairie plant community. No experience necessary…Just a desire to be outdoors and learn about this local prairie and how YOU can restore it. Learn more or sign up today!
May Day Parade (May 7) Workshop –Volunteer
7-9 pm Help build the puppets for the MayDay Parade! During the month of April, our building is transformed into a giant studio where staff artists and volunteers create the MayDay Parade. More info. [American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation is available at every Tuesday night workshop.]
Avalon Theatre, 1500 E Lake St, Mpls, MN 55407
05/02/17 DNR Headquarters, 500 Lafayette Rd, Saint Paul, MN 55155 Wildlife Oversight Committee meeting
* * *
Wednesday, May 3
Hiking with Babies and Toddlers
7-8:30 pm Come learn the best tips and tricks for successful hiking with babies and toddlers along for the fun. Discussions include gear, food, pacing, nearby hiking locations, and more.
Minnetonka Community Education – Adult Programs (4584 Vine Hill Rd, Excelsior, Minnesota 55331)
Park Morel Mushrooms
10 AM to 12 PM Discover a whole new world of this State of Minnesota mushroom! Call in advance to confirm event, because this year morels popped up early in some areas! 507-932-3007 ext 226
Whitewater State
Become an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) –Volunteer
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM Citizens who are interested in informing the public about aquatic invasive species and how to slow their spread can receive AIS volunteer or ambassador training from the Watercraft Inspection Program staff. This training includes information on how to educate members of the public on AIS and how to prevent the spread. More info Contact Christine Hokkala-Kuhns at 320.223.7845
Buffalo Civic Center
Sharp-talied Grouse Hunting Public Input Meeting
6 PM to 8:30 PM The Minnesota DNR is taking input through June 1 on a proposal that would reduce the length of the sharp-tailed grouse hunting season in a portion of the state’s current open area. Under this proposal, the season would be reduced by about four weeks in a newly-created area east of a line from Floodwood to the northern border. More info.
DNR Headquarters, 500 Lafayette Rd, Saint Paul, MN 55155
DNR Walleye Workgroup Meeting
10:30 AM to 3 PM This will be a working business meeting of the DNR Walleye Workgroup. The Walleye Workgroup is a group of citizen volunteers who provide input to DNR on walleye management. While public are welcome to observe this meeting, there will be no formal public input opportunities at this point.
Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germaine St., Saint Cloud, MN 56301
* * *
Thursday, May 4
May Day Parade (May 7) Workshop –Volunteer
7-9 pm Help build the puppets for the MayDay Parade! During the month of April, our building is transformed into a giant studio where staff artists and volunteers create the MayDay Parade. More info.
Avalon Theatre, 1500 E Lake St, Mpls, MN 55407
Remove Garlic Mustard at Pine Bend Bluffs SNA –Volunteer Stewardship Project
6 PM to 8 PM After a short hike volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to remove the invasive species garlic mustard. Brought over by European settlers, this former garden plant has no natural controls in our landscape and can easily take over a forest floor, leaving very little ground cover for other species. Although a serious threat, garlic mustard is fairly easy to identify and quick to pull by hand. Volunteers should be able to see a big difference in just a couple hours of work. These characteristics make removal of this invasive species the perfect restoration activity for volunteers who want to work independently. Sign Up.
Lil’ Park PEEPS
10:30-11:30 Bring your “Lil’ PEEP” to this preschool environmental education program designed for ages 2 – 5 years. Each month we explore a different nature topic through engaging stories, songs, activities and outdoor exploration. We sometimes go outdoors if the weather cooperates, so bring appropriate clothing. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center.
Jay Cooke State Park
* * *
Friday, May 5
Art Opening – Tim Pearson
7 PM to 8:30 PM North Shore native, Tim Pearson, melds his art with his wildlife biology background. Come visit with Tim at this event and view his charming portraits of some of our native animals.
Tettegouche State Park
Frog Walk
7:30 pm We will listen to a number of amphibian calls before setting off to listen if we can hear wood frogs, tree frogs, spring peepers and salamanders in the woods. This event will be led by the Friends of Wolsfeld Woods. See the Wolsfeld Woods SNA web page for a map and description of the site.
Wolsfeld Woods SNA
<Notice: 05/05/17 Bear Hunt Lottery Deadline>
* * *
Saturday, May 6
Bird Walk
7-8 AM BWe will leave the Nature Reserve parking area (Neal Avenue crossing) at 7 a.m. and return to the starting point at 8 a.m. We will identify as many species as we can by sight and sound during the hour. Bring binoculars if you have them. Drizzle or light rain is OK, but the walks and sit will be cancelled if it?s very windy or significant precipitation is likely.
Brown’s Creek State Trail – Neal Ave
Spring Flowers Photo Hike and Lecture
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. May is an interesting time in Minnesota for flowers. Before the trees leaf out, there are a number of spring ephemerals that bloom. These last only a couple of weeks before they are gone! Our goal will be to try and locate some of these flowers and try a number of different techniques for capturing them.
Bloomington Education and Visitor Center (Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge Center)
Let’s Talk Photography!
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Join us at Oxboro Library to learn how more about photography! Have you ever wanted to learn how to capture those breath taking nature photos you see everywhere? Well, here is your opportunity to learn. Join us for a free introductory class on how to take beautiful photos in nature and learn what it takes to capture those once in a life time moments. More info.
Oxboro Library (8801 Portland Ave S, Minneapolis)
Fishing Trip
For questions or to register contact Linda Bylander at linda.bylander@state.mn.us
Makato area
Lore of the Loon
A talk about the natural history and mysterious calls of the loon will be followed by a classic nature film. Meet at the Interpretive Center. (45 minutes)
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Nasty Plants
10 AM Learn how to identify and avoid poisonous and dangerous plants.
Lake Maria State Park
Birding at Bear Head
8 AM to 10 AM Meet at the park office for a guided walk to listen and look for the variety of bird species within the park. A limited number of binoculars will be available for free checkout or bring your own. Dress for the weather, insect repellent is recommended. Meet at the Park Office.
Bear Head Lake State Park
Spring Clean-up at the Park –Volunteer op!
1 PM to 3 PM Pack a picnic lunch and bring family, friends, or your scout group out to the park for an hour or two of volunteering! Many hands make light work on projects such as weeding, picking up sticks, litter pick up on the trails and more. All ages are welcome! Bring work gloves and dress for the weather, rain or shine. Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly. Call Jenni at 651-465-5711 x 225 or e-mail jenni.webster@state.mn.us
Interstate State Park
The 3’s of Spring Survival
1-3 PM Learn about the 3’s of basic survival and then make a survival bracelet you can keep. Younger kids will need help with the knots. There are a limited number of spots, so please call or sign-up early to register a spot! The number is 651-433-0500. Meet at the Visitor Center!
William O’Brien State Park
Park Go-n-seine
1 PM to 2 PM To study fish populations, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources uses special nets called seine nets. This seining program will discuss the habitat requirements of different fish species, how water quality affects fish. Program location will be determined depending on water level, please follow signs when inside the park.
No registration required.
Fort Snelling State
Birding for You and Me
1:30 PM to 3 PM Stop by the Visitor Center to learn all about birding. Take the birding challenge; test your knowledge of bird songs; play beakology and much more.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Birds of Spring
10 AM to 11:30 AM Take a gentle walk to discover who has returned to the northwoods. Learn birding tips and different tools that will develop your bird watching skills.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Bison Calf Romp
10 AM to 11:30 AM ee Blue Mound’s newest spring arrivals. Meet at the picnic grounds. From there, park staff will assess where the bison currently are and if they can be viewed from the enclosure perimeter. If viewing is likely, we will form a car-caravan to drive to the closest access point (potentially up to a 4 mile drive) and hike to the best viewing vantage point. This may require some off-trail hiking in wet conditions. Be prepared for up to a 3 mile hike (possibly through an inch or two of standing water for short durations) with appropriate footwear, tick protection, and binoculars!
Blue Mounds State Park
Wildflower Walk
1 PM to 3 PM Spring is finally here! On this short, leisurely walk you will see many favorite wildflowers including Dutchman?s-breeches, bloodroot, hepatica, spring beauty, marsh marigold
Whitewater State Park
Morel Mushrooms
10 AM to 12 PM The Minnesota state mushroom is popping up all over! Come learn about this delicate beauty. Sign up by calling 507-932-3007 ext 226
Whitewater State Park
Carley Bluebell Festival
10 AM to 3 PM Celebrate the beauty of our spring bluebells, in abundance at Carley State Park. A variety of activities will be offered throughout the day including trout fishing programs for kids, archery for ages 8 and older, wildflower walks and more.
Carley State Park
Spring Wildflower Walk
10 AM Spring ephemerals bloom in that brief interval between the soil’s warming and the leafing of the dense tree canopy. This event will be led by the Friends of Wolsfeld Woods. See the Wolsfeld Woods SNA web page for a map and description of the site.
Wolsfeld Woods SNA
Roving Naturalist
10 AM to 4 PM Roving Naturalists will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to help you identify signs of spring. Specifically they will point out the Federally Endangered MN Dwarf Trout Lily, other wildflowers, and some plants that do not bloom. Look for these park ambassadors on the Hidden Falls Boardwalk. Weather permitting.
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
Become an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) –Volunteer
9 AM to 12 PM Citizens who are interested in informing the public about aquatic invasive species and how to slow their spread can receive AIS volunteer or ambassador training from the Watercraft Inspection Program staff. This training includes information on how to educate members of the public on AIS and how to prevent the spread.
Brainerd DNR Office
A Workshop for Private Landowners
8 AM to 5 PM This workshop will focus on providing insight for private land timber sales from a variety of experts. We hope this opportunity to learn how to properly manage your forestland will be useful, and when your forest is ready, you will be able to make the contacts necessary for a successful timber sale.
Cohasset Community Center 305 1st Ave NW, Cohasset, MN 55721
Sakatah Lake Birding Hike
8 AM to 9:30 AM Join us for a guided hike to listen and look for the variety of bird species who have returned to their woodland home. Meet at the visitor parking lot. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. *Please note the change in date, this program will take place on Saturday May 6th.
Sakatah Lake State Park
Intro to Geocaching
1 PM to 2:30 PM Geocaching is an outdoor activity that everyone can enjoy! If you have wanted to try it or are looking for a great family activity, now is your chance! GPS units will be provided with instructions on use and a chance to practice. Then you will get an opportunity to find a few caches to hone your skills. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Wild River State Park
* * *
Sunday, May 7
May Day Parade!
Parade, activities in the park, and Tree of Life ceremony. Visit the website for more info.
Bird Watching Trek
Sunday, May 7
8:00 – 10:30 a.m. Join us for a bird watching trek at the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center and learn about the birds that visit the refuge during their spring migration. During spring migration observe a mix of waterfowl, raptors, warblers, and other songbirds resting and feeding before they continue their northerly migration. Birders of all skill levels are welcome. Bring along your binoculars, your favorite field guide, and dress appropriately for the weather. If you have any questions or need help finding the trailhead, contact volunteer refuge naturalist Craig Mandel (952) 240-7647
Bloomington Education and Visitor Center (Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge Center)
Morel Mushrooms
10 AM to 12 PM Course details: Learn how to identify, find and cook the tasty morel mushrooms of the hardwood forests.
Whitewater State Park
Bird Banding Demonstration
12:30 PM to 2 PM Join Master Bird Bander, Greg Munson, at the visitor center bird feeders for close-up experiences with birds. Program participants will have the opportunity to handle and release birds after they have been caught in nets, studied, observed and banded with an aluminum tag.
Whitewater State Park
Pothole Investigations with the Naturalist
1 PM to 2 PM Long ago, the park’s glacial potholes and their depths were a mystery. Today, uncover their secrets using the sounding technique of early explorers. Take part in a friendly “guess the depth” competition as you take turns measuring several of these unique geologic features. This is a great tour for families with children. Be prepared for a short walk on uneven rock. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Interstate State Park How Deep!?
Stories in Stones
10 AM to 12 PM
Sugarloaf Point SNA Sugarloaf Cove
Nordic Walking
1 PM to 2:30 PM Join us for a walk through the woods. Nordic Walking uses 90% of your muscles and burns more calories! It also distributes your weight more so your knees aren’t doing all of the work. Demonstration Poles will be provided for your use.
William O’Brien State Park
Birding for Beginners
10 AM to 11 AM irding is an enjoyable and challenging hobby. Join the naturalist for a birding hike and learn about the basic techniques of bird identification. Binoculars and bird guides will be available. Meet at Thomas Savage Visitor Center (two miles from park entrance. Plan for an additional 10 minute drive through the park).
Fort Snelling State Park
Snakes Alive!
2-3 PM Learn about the snakes found in this park and get an up-close look (and feel if you dare) at our live resident garter and bull snakes. We will even feed the snakes in front of your own eyes at the end of the program! See that there is nothing to fear from these amazing reptiles. Meet at the Visitor Center.
Wild River State Park
Save the Date! Friends of the Schools Plant Sale! May 12-14
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.