The November-December 2009 issue of the "From Shore to Shore" newsletter is now posted on the website for you to view and/or download. To access it, please go to:
http://shorelandmanagement.org/shore_shore/
If you are interested in starting or joining a MN Master Naturalist chapter in the west metro area, please contact Cheryl Culbreth at caculb@aol.com (specify "Master Naturalist" in the subject line).
The City of Minnetonka may be willing to provide meeting facilities and educational resource assistance at little or no cost. Meeting facilities would be located on Minnetonka Blvd. just west of 494. Any participation or feedback would be appreciated.
Newsletter for Minnesota's EE Community
Website: http://www.seek.state.mn.us/index.cfm
Find the updated SEEK calendar online at: http://www.seek.state.mn.us/calendar.cfm
Go online to sign up to receive the bulletin via email at: http://visitor.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=00147Jgk4c64VPwJbq56GNL-w%3D%3D
Date: Saturday, November 14, 2009, 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Running Aces Harness Park, 1501 Zurich Street, Columbus, MN
Tickets $125 per person or $900 per table (seats 8); private reception $250 per person
Register online at www.wildlifesciencecenter.org, mail in your registration to: Wildlife Science Center, 5643 West Broadway, Forest Lake, MN 55025, or call 651-464-3993.
Join us for a fun and inspirational evening with Don Shelby, winner of all five of the nation's top journalism awards, including a Peabody Award for his ongoing work with the youth of Minnesota. He has received several honors for his community efforts and was inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2007.
This event includes a silent auction, dinner and wine, and a program. The private reception includes social hour with Don Shelby and premium seating for the dinner and the program. The Master of Ceremony is Minnesota Public Radio's Valerie Kahler; also featuring Peggy Callahan, Executive Director of the Wildlife Science Center.
The Richard C. Bartlett award is presented annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation to an outstanding teacher who has successfully integrated environmental education into his or her daily curriculum. The 2010 prize will be given to a high school teacher who can serve as an inspiration or model for both students and colleagues. The winner receives a $5000 award and a trip to Washington D.C. where he or she meets with representatives from the environmental education community to further his or her education network. Do you know a teacher who stands out among the rest? If so, please nominate him/her for the 2010 Richard C. Bartlett Award. Nominations will be accepted through January 15, 2010. To learn more or submit your nomination visit http://www.neefusa.org/bartlettaward.htm.
I am looking for a clear and close high resolution photograph of either a starflower or a bunchberry flower with leaves from Minnesota to use on the cover of the Northwoods Linneaus List. I will give you credit. If you have something that meets this criteria please send a copy to dawn.flinn@state.mn.us.
Happy Halloween!
Did you know that bats help control pests? In fact, some species feast on as many as 1,000 mosquitoes an hour while others dine on thousands of pest beetles and moths a night.
Here are some other fascinating facts about bats:
- There are more than 1,000 species of bats in the world. All of these bats make up about a quarter of all mammals in existence.
- Bats help many plants: hundreds of plant species - including bananas, avocadoes, and mangos - rely on the polilnating and seed dispersal services of bats.
- Bats are the most diverse group of mammals: The smallest weighs less than a penny and the largest has a wingspan of up to six feet!
- Bats are the only mammal that can truly fly.
To get started, just complete the easy online application indicating that you have provided what animals need most - food, water, shelter, and places to raise their famiies. Your $20 application fee allows NWF to continue its important work to safegaurd our nation's wildlife and wild places. Plus, you'll get great benefits.
To get started: http://www.nwf.org/gardenforwildlife/certify.cfm?campaignid=WH10MBTK
Date: Thursday, November 5, 2009, 7:45 am to 1:30 pm
Location: Doubletree Rochester Hotel, 150 South Broadway, Rochester, MN
Registration: http://mn-ei.org/events/upcoming.html#2
Please join MEI and Minnesota Waste Wise in Rochester for the final 2009 Minnesota Road Show. A series of four informative fleet efficiency workshops in four Minnesota cities: Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud and the Twin Cities. The workshops feature presentations from national experts and experienced local fleet managers on emission reduction strategies, alternative fuels, available technologies, and funding opportunities. Optional lunch break out sessions will explore these topics in depth, and provide an opportunity to get solutions to specific problems, share experiences and discuss challenges across sectors.
Sponsors: Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, Donaldson Filtration Solutions, Minnesota Soy Growers
Date: November 5, 2009, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Fort Snelling State Park Visitor's Center; take Post Road exit off Hwy 5 and follow the signs to the end of the road
Free
Contact: Susan Fall 612-721-6366
Connect with friends and fellow Master Naturalists at the Minnesota Master Naturalist-Twin Cities Chapter meeting and listen to entomologist Neil Cunningham speak on an essential member of our environment - the insects.
Neil Cunningham is an urban naturalist who, through his website, describes the urban environment as a dynamic space where community service, biological understanding and environmental action intersect. Join us to gain a better understanding of a segment of this dynamic space - the world of insects.
Interact with friends and fellow Master Naturalists while enjoying an appetizer and beverage. A brief business meeting will follow and at 7:00 pm Neil will give his presentation.
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2009, 10:30 am -12:00 pm
Location: Theodore Wirth Park Beach House, 3200 Glenwood Ave, Mpls, directions found at: http://www.minneapolisparks.org/documents/parks/TheodoreWirthMap.pdf
Free, no registration required
Contact: Patty Born Selly 612-501-5179, patty@domware.com
"Come Out and Play" is a free, no-registration, no-obligation program sponsored by the Minneapolis Parks that encourages families to get out and enjoy nature! Research shows that kids who spend time in nature are more relaxed, sleep better, and enjoy better physical health than those who spend the majority of their time indoors. Fall has us in its crisp embrace, let's enjoy it! Get outside and have some fun exploring your wonderful urban park system!
Join the play group leaders and their kids for some completely unstructured, un-directed play in nature! We do this about twice a month and encourage families with young children to join us. Skip the playgrounds and join us in a natural setting. Each month we'll pick a new location in a Minneapolis Park. I'll let you know where the parking is, the deal with the bathrooms, and I'll even provide all the equipment you and your little ones need to have fun in nature. Kids of all ages are welcome, including (of course) babes-in-arms. There is no charge for attending, it's a free playgroup. We meet rain or shine.
Where to meet: We are meeting at the Wirth Beach House, then setting out from there. It will likely be too cold for swimming but there are walking trails, a nearby pond to check out, and some great open areas for running and playing.
Parking: There is free parking at the Beach House, and one porta-potty. No running water.
What to bring: Drinking water and snacks if desired.
Cool Weather tip: Dress in layers! The forecast is for a beautiful day, but it might be windy. A hat, mittens, and wind-resistant outer layer are suggested. Wearing a hat is the best way to stay warm outdoors.
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: MN Pollution Control Agency, 7678 College Rd, Ste 105, Baxter/Brainerd
Free. All are invited
Contact: Molly Zins 218-251-1462 or MollyZ@minnesotawaters.org
State Senators and Representatives from Districts 4 and 12 will address the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment money; potential funds for the region's natural resources; and green jobs in the area. Legislators will be asked a series of questions pertaining to the discussion topics and there will be time for questions from the audience.
Anyone interested in learning about the Outdoor Heritage Fund, the Clean Water Fund, or the Parks and Trails Fund, including how and where these monies will be spent to help create green jobs in the region, is encouraged to attend. Take this opportunity to connect directly with your legislators, share your priorities and hear firsthand about the legislative initiatives expected for the upcoming 2010 session.
Date: Friday, October 23, 2009, 9:00pm - 10:15pm
Location: Springbrook Nature Center, 100 - 85th Ave. NW, Fridley, MN
Free, donations will be accepted
Host: Minnesota Picture-Takers Guild
Contact: Tim Boyle (612) 382-7583
If you purchased a UV flashlight from me in the last couple weeks, or would like to, and want to try it out; a chance to use those flashlights on something really cool...!
Last year, after Springbrook's Pumpkin Night in the Park Event, we dumped hundreds of pumpkins in the woods and a week later I went back to check them out with UV lights. The glowing colors were incredible! I can't promise everything will be the same this year, but this is a great chance to play with the lights and try some challenging photography. We may see some deer, raccoons, opossum, or other critters interested in the smashed pumpkins too.
I will be working until 9, and we will be presenting a FREE nature movie that evening from 6:30 - 8 PM or so.
You are welcome to come for the movie and stay for the hike, or show up any time you'd like. The hike will leave from the nature center a little after 9 PM. It's about an easy 10 min. walk to the pumpkin patch.
Dress for the weather, bring a regular flashlight or headlamp and your UV, and a tripod and camera if you have one. I also will have plenty of UV lights to loan out and purchase there if you like.
To register for any of these programs go to www.minneapolisparks.org or call 612-313-7725.
Fall Bird Migration at Bassett's Creek/Bryn Mawr Neighborhood
Date: Saturday, Oct. 24, 7-9 a.m.
For adults. $6 fee.
In this session we'll explore a part of the Theodore Wirth Park near Wirth Lake in western Minneapolis and see what bird species pop up. Meet at the Bryn Mawr Meadows parking lot off Morgan Ave S.
Fall Paddle on the Chain of Lakes
Date: Sunday, Oct. 25, 1-3 p.m.
Ages 10 and up $6 fee
Learn about the Lakes and the wildlife they support. Meet at the N.E. corner of the Lake Calhoun refectory. There is a firm limit of 12 people so sign up early. Canoe, life jacket, and paddles provided. Meet at the Lake Calhoun refectory (also known as the Tin Fish).
Moon Walk at Lake Nokomis
Tuesday, Nov. 3, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
$5 fee
Take an evening tour of the Park. We'll look for night creatures and watch the sky. Listen to the night in late fall and imagine what life must have been like before the corner street light. Meet at the Lake Nokomis Beach parking lot.
Minneapolis Geology at Minnehaha Park
Saturday, Nov. 7, 10-11:30 a.m.
$5 fee
Learn about the geological processes that created St Anthony and Minnehaha Falls. Hike down to the Mississippi River from the base of Minnehaha Falls. Meet at the Minnehaha Park Pavilion (also known as Sea Salt).
Dates: January - May, 2010
Location: Minnesota Discovery Center, 801 Hwy 169, Chisholm, MN
Contact: Kelly Florence, Education Coordinator, 218-254-1236
The Minnesota Discovery Center is hosting a traveling exhibit called, "Thoreau's Walden," that focuses on nature and nature photography. They would like to have nature walks on Saturdays during this exhibit and need people to lead them. The guide would point out tracks, types of trees, etc. on the property.
Date: Friday, October 23, 2009, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Location: UMN Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, 2660 Fawn Lake Dr NE, Bethel
Cost: $5
Registration: pregister by contacting Barb Spears at 651-328-0463 or bjspears@q.com
Website: http://www.cedarcreek.umn.edu/
Please join us for this very unique opportunity to visit the UMN Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve for the latest research affecting Minnesota's natural resources. Presentation by Dr. Jeff Corney, on how climate change may affect MN; visit field experiments on biodiversity (1st in the world); prescribed burn units and red-headed woodpecker habitat. Discussion on how this research may apply to private land management decisions and practices.
Dress and prepare appropriately for outdoor field tour. We will carpool from the facility following an indoor presentation. Light refreshments provided.
Go online to www.myminnesotawoods.org, your source for woodland stewardship advice.
Contact: Alison Bunge, City of St. Paul Parks & Recreation, Americorps VISTA Member, ph: 651-632-2453, email: alison.bunge@ci.stpaul.mn.us
The Recreation Centers have a free program called Rec Check where
volunteers commit to come in regularly/weekly to provide environmental programming after school anytime between 2:30 and 6:00 p.m. (This program may become compatible with the new Jr. Master Naturalists program Master Naturalists is piloting).
This school year there are 'No School Day' volunteer opportunities available on December 28th, 29th, 30th; March 29th, 30th, 31st; and April 1st and 2nd. St. Paul Parks and Recreation can provide the lesson/activity from their curriculum or volunteers can use another lesson/activity they are familiar with. Volunteers commit to at least a single one-hour session. A typical schedule for No School Day programming is as follows:
Grades K-1: 9:00-10:00 a.m. or 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Grades 2-3: 10:00-11:00 a.m. or 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Grades 4-6: 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Animal feeding at Springbrook Nature Center, 100 85th Street NE, Fridley, occurs every Saturday at 10:00 am.
Dates:
Sunday, October 11, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Monday, Octber 12, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Tuesday, October 13, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Wednesday, October 14, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Thursday, October 15, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Pre-registration is required to schedule your date and time for carving pumpkins
Location: Springbrook Nature Center, 100 85th Ave, Fridley
Contact: ph 763-572-3588
Website: www.sprinbrooknaturecenter.org
Help carve pumpkins for the "Enchanted Trails" during the October 17 "Pumpkin Night in the Park" event.
Pumpkin Night in the Park, A non-violent family adventure
Date: Saturday, October 17, 6:00-10:00 pm
Location: Springbrook Nature Center, 100 85th Ave, Fridley
$6 at gate, $5.50 in advance (2 and under free)
Contact: ph 763-572-3588
Website: www.springbrooknaturecenter.org
- Ghost of Elvis Returns
- Enchanted Trails
- Road Kill Cafe
- Over 500 carved pumpkins
- Pumpkin patch dance with DJ
- Spooky bingo and concessions extra
Date: Tuesday, October 27 - Thursday, October 29, 2009
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Website: http://www.uky.edu/Ag/NurseryInspection/agmr/agmr2009.htm
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the National Gypsy Moth Management Board invite you to attend and participate in the Annual Gypsy Moth Review. The Program Committee has lined up a variety of knowledgeable speakers to talk about gypsy moth, program management, and other invasive forest insects.
Newsletter for Minnesota's EE Community
Website: http://www.seek.state.mn.us/index.cfm
Find the updated SEEK calendar online at: http://www.seek.state.mn.us/calendar.cfm
Go online to sign up to receive the bulletin via email at: http://visitor.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=00147Jgk4c64VPwJbq56GNL-w%3D%3D
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2009, 9:00 am to 11:30 am
Contact Susan Jane Cheney, cheneysj@msn.com or phone 651-489-6452.
The District 10 Environment Committee is working with the Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom Advisory Committee and St. Paul Park & Recreation EcoPartners program on a buckthorn bust. We are seeking volunteers for help with this event. We will be hauling out buckthorn cut by Parks staff, pulling small buckthorn re-sprouts, and also removing common burdock seed heads (lighter duty task).
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Location: Purgatory Park, Minnetonka
Contact: Cheryl Culbreth, volunteer coordinator, 612-590-9395
Janet Van Sloun Larson, Natural Resource Specialist, City of Minnetonka, will be leading a one-day volunteer buckthorn removal event. Receive expert field training on proper buckthorn removal technique that will free high value native plants.
I am about to place a large bulk order for handheld UV flashlights. Many of you that have joined me on my "Glow-in-the-Dark" hikes or at the nature center have expressed an interest in getting your own UV flashlight.
I've tried a bunch now and settled on a supplier that sells this model. They have 21 UV LEDs and run on 3 AAA batteries. They are milled aluminum and have a recessed power switch on the back that has less chance of being turned on accidentally. They are 4" long.
I can get them for $5.50 a piece if anyone is interested. The batteries last a LONG time and they are very durable. I always keep one in my backpack now and keep finding cool stuff that glows. I brought one to Forestville Mystery Cave and had a great time when they turned all the lights off.
Let me know if you are interested, and how many, and I will put together an order. I can ship them to you via mail if you like.
Thanks a lot! Hope to see you at an upcoming hike!
Tim Boyle
Naturalist - Photographer
Springbrook Nature Center, Fridley, MN
763-572-3588
info@springbrooknaturecenter.org
Want to learn more about the North Metro Volunteer Naturalists chapter? Visit http://tinyurl.com/NorthMetroChapter for additional information and a calendar of events. We hope to see you at our next meeting!
Three recreation centers are looking for volunteers to provide environmental education for K-6 grades on MEA No School Days October 15 and 16. I could provide the activities that are listed below, or any volunteer educator could provide another appropriate activity. This would be the schedule and locations:
Thursday, October 15: Jimmy Lee Recreation Center
Grades Time Activity
K-1 9:00-10:00 a.m. Minnesota Biomes Collage
2-3 10:00-11:00 a.m. Nature Scavenger Hunt
4-6 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Eating Like an Insect
Thursday, October 15: Hazel Park Recreation Center
Grades Time Activity
K-1 1:00-2:00 p.m. Minnesota Biomes Collage
2-3 2:00-3:00 p.m. Nature Scavenger Hunt
4-6 3:00-4:00 p.m. Eating Like an Insect
Friday, October 16: North Dale Recreation Center (~80 students)
Grades Time Activity
K-1 1:00-2:00 p.m. Minnesota Biomes Collage
2-3 2:00-3:00 p.m. Nature Scavenger Hunt
4-6 3:00-4:00 p.m. Eating Like an Insect
Contact if you are interested in helping out or have questions:
Alison Bunge
City of St. Paul Parks & Recreation
Americorps VISTA Volunteer
651-632-2453
Alison.Bunge@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Date: October 2-4, 2009
Location: Long Lake Conservation Center, 28952 438th Lane, Palisade, about 130 miles north of the Twin Cities. Map and driving directions can be found on the website at: www.llcc.org
Registration: $150 full package includes 2 nights lodging and 4 meals, $90 Saturday package includes 3 meals; Full registration is all weekend, check in between 5 and 7 pm on Friday; ends at 2 pm on Sunday; For more information, or to register, call 800-450-5522 or email to carol@llcc.org
Calling all photographers!
Have you ever wanted to get away with your camera and have a comfortable place to work on that technique you've heard or read about? Never find the time to explore with your camera? This is your opportunity to schedule that time and enjoy the company of others that share your same passion for photography. Share and learn from each other at this photographer's retreat. From beginners to experts, this is a weekend dedicated to people who want to explore the world of nature photography; birds, animals, forests, bogs, a lake, and more. Long Lake Conservation Center is a 760-acre outdoor classroom and the subject for your photos.
From sunrise to sunset, there is always something to "focus" on.
With the dark sky away from city lights, you may even get a nice shot of the stars in the sky! Fall colors should be in full force for this retreat, with lots of opportunity to get that perfect photo suitable for framing.
Please join us! I will teaching and available to answer your questions and help with hands-on photographic instruction and guidance.
Some of the highlights of this Fall's session options for learning and recreation include:
~ A marked "photo-orientation" course for you to hike and find the viewpoints, which include taking a "theme" suggested photo at each stop. The course will be open all weekend and on the final day before the group breaks up, we will compare everyone's approaches to the different themes and scenes.
~ A classroom and field comparison program using both point and shoot digital cameras, and digital SLR cameras.
If you have a point and shoot digital camera of any type, bring it along, and we will also try to provide as many as possible for your use and experimentation.
We will compare the pitfalls and advantages of both styles of cameras and challenge you to shoot with both. Hopefully we will inspire you to find the shortcomings of a point and shoot and overcome them with a DSLR. Either way it should be a fun way to learn about the similarities and differences of modern cameras, and explore some of your less used features.
~ We will also have some classroom question and answer time about photo editing software, and I will attempt to show you my methods of getting what I need out of Paint Shop Pro, and talk about how it differs from Photoshop. I will focus on practical, efficient photo editing and photo cleanup, prepping photos for email, web publishing, and for submission for various uses.
~ Along with fielding your questions and helping you to be better photographers, we will take some relaxing hikes and field trips, give you some time to relax or explore the beautiful facility on your own, and enjoy each others company over meals or by the fireplace. This is one of my favorite parts of the weekend.
- Naturalist & Professional Photographer, Tim Boyle
Facility Highlights:
· 760 Acres of Nature as your subject
· Share with other photographers
· Learn from experts
· Workshops
· Software editing
· Printing techniques
· Demonstrations
· And More!
* This retreat is designed for Digital Photography - Film photographers welcome, but limited in activity participation.
Date: September 26, 2009, 10:00 am
Location: Fort Snelling State Park, beach area, take the Post Road exit off Highway 5 and follow the signs.
Contact: Call (612) 725-2389 or Visitor Center (612) 725-2724.
MN Master Naturalists will have a booth at this event. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is hosting a day of Outdoor Family Fun and you are invited! Get hands-on instruction in a variety of activities including laser shooting, paddling a canoe, fishing from shore, Geocaching and more! Event is free, but a state park vehicle permit is required.
Date: Friday, October 23, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm; Optional Tours of Beckman Bog and Fish Lake Nature Trails from 5:15 to 6:15 pm.
Location: UMN Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, 2660 Fawn Lake Dr NE, Bethel
Registration: $5 fee, Pre-register by calling 651-328-0463 or email bjspears@q.com
Website: http://www.cedarcreek.umn.edu/
Please join us for this very unique opportunity to visit the UMN Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve for the latest research affecting Minnesota's natural resources. Presentations on how climate change may affect MN; visit field experiments on biodiversity (1st in the world); prescribed burn units and red-headed woodpecker habitat. Discussion on how this research may apply to private land management decisions and practices.
Date: November 4, 2009, 6:30 pm - book sale and signing, 7:00 pm - presentation
Location: New Douglas County Public Works Building, 526 Willow Dr., Alexandria
Registration: $5
Contact: Douglas County Extension, 320-762-3890
Noted author and naturalist, Carrol Henderson, will be speaking on attracting and feeding birds in your winter garden. Mr. Henderson is the Non-game Wildlife Program supervisor for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. In this role, he has had the opportunity to develop conservation programs to help restore endangered wildlife and to explore and enjoy some of Minnesota's greatest birding destinations.
Join us for an evening of good company, useful information and great fun!
Mr. Henderson asks you to support Minnesota's non-game wildlife program. Donate online at www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/nongame/checkoff.html, or check the box on your Minnesota State Tax returns. The loon marks the line where you can help preserve Minnesota's wildlife! Your donation makes a difference!
The Twin Cities Naturalist Blog & Podcast are an entertaining mix of phenology, trivia, natural history and interviews with important nature-based personalities in Minnesota. The Podcast comes out monthly. The blog is written by professional naturalist Kirk Mona and he is joined on the podcast by fellow naturalist Paul Smithson.
http://tcnaturalist.blogspot.com/search/label/Minnesota%20Master%20Naturalist
Filmed during more than six years at some of nature's most spectacular parks - from Acadia to Yosemite, Yellowstone to the Grand Canyon, the Everglades of Florida to the Gates of the Arctic in Alaska - the National Parks: America's Best Idea, is a story of people who devoted themselves to saving a portion of the land they loved, and thereby reminded their fellow citizens to the full meaning of democracy. It is a story of struggle and conflict, high ideals and opportunism, and adventure. This six epidosode series begins on PBS on September 27, 2009.
Printed and online educational materials created around the film support formal and informal classroom settings with lesson plans and hands-on learning activities. View a preview and find out more on PBS's National Parks page website: www.pbs.org/nationalparks/
Dates: Saturdays, October 10 - November 21, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (no class 10/31, 6 sessions total)
Location: Hartley Nature Center, 3001 Woodland Ave, Duluth
$175 for Hartley members, $225 for non-members
Registration: call 218-724-6735 to register
Scientific illustrator Rachel MaKarrall will guide you through the process of creating nature drawings that will satisfy your inner artist. We will cover basic drawing techniques including line, shape, value and perspective as applied to local natural subjects. This course is for beginners - those who are curious about drawing but think they lack the talent. Put your fears aside and learn what it takes to unleash your creative side! All supplies are included, so all you have to bring is your willingness to learn. Get signed up soon, as we expect class to fill.
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009, 11 am to 4 pm
Location: The Raptor Center, 1920 Fitch Ave, St. Paul,
Contact: 612-624-4745
Website: www.theraptorcenter.org
Flock to the Raptor Center for the annual Fall Open House! Visitors will:
- Hear real-life clinic stories from our expert veterinarians
- Meet our education eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons beak-to-face
- Participate in hands-on activities for kids of all ages
- See our education programs with live raptors
Date: Friday, October 9, 2009, 4:00 pm
Location: Pomeroy Student-Alumni Learning Center, St. Paul Campus, University of Minnesota, Room 215W, 1964 Fitch Ave, St. Paul
Free and open to the public.
Share in the Excitement of Homecoming 2009 as we kick-off this year's homecoming weekend with a very special Duke lecture! The special guest speaker is Jim Gilbert, a gifted author and nature photographer.
Date: September 26, 2009, 10 am to 3 pm
Location: Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center, 12805 St. Croix Trail, Hastings
Free
Contact: The Raptor Center, 612-624-4745
Website: www.TheRaptorCenter.org
Presented by the Raptor Center and Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center, the Fall Raptor Release is sponsored by the 3M Foundation. Visitors are reminded that pets are not allowed at the event. During this exciting celebration, participants can:
- watch in awe as raptors are returned to the wild
- observe and photograph The Raptor Center's eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls up close and personal
- participate in the children's activities and educational displays throughout the day
Date: October 31, 2009, 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Location: Maplewood Nature Center, 2659 E 7th St, Maplewood
For all ages
Registration: Free, call 651-249-2170 to register
Meet our snake, toad, and salamander. Watch them slurp up a treat that you find under a log. Touch and see them up close.
Date: October 16, 2009, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Location: Maplewood Nature Center, 2659 E 7th St, Maplewood
For ages 5-10
Registration: $8 per child, prepayment requested, call 651-249-2170, send or drop off payment
Participate in some "batty" activities as you hike the nature trail at night with no flashlights and meet some giant nature creatures. If weather permits, we'll tell stories and have treats around the campfire. Educational with an element of surprise!
Date: September 26, 2009, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Free with state park sticker
Contact: 320-532-3523
The Minnesota Archaeological Society will host a day of demonstrations, displays and activities highlighting the archaeology and heritage of the region.
Demonstrations will include flint knapping, primitive bow-making, pottery making and children's learning activities. Displays include artifacts, books and pamphlets from the Minnesota Archaeological Society, as well as archaeology research by the Minnesota Historical Society, St. Cloud State University and the Minnesota Office of the State Archaeologist. The public is invited to observe an archaeological excavation in progress, where previous work revealed artifacts and a house floor from A.D. 1200. Films about archaeology will be shown continuously at the park's interpretive center. Check out a GPS unit, receive basic instruction and go on a GPS tour of Kathio State Park's heritage sites.
Archaeologists will give tours in 10-person canoes while discussing sites of the Kathio National Historic Landmark District. Three 90-minute tours will be offered, at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Registration is required and is limited to the first 18 people for each canoe tour. Register for the canoe tours at the park's interpretive center or call 320-532-3269 and leave your name, phone number, and number of people attending. Paddles and life jackets are provided.
A vehicle permit is required to enter Minnesota State Parks. Vehicle permits may be purchased at the park office, $5.00 for a daily permit or $25.00 for an annual permit, which allows entry to all Minnesota State Parks for one year from the date of purchase.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is located 8 miles north of Onamia and 14 miles south of Garrison, on U.S. Highway 169.
Dates: Saturday, September 26, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, Sunday, September 27, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Location: Prairie Wetlands Learning Center, 602 State Hwy 210 E, Fergus Falls
Registration: $95 fee, space is limited to 12 participants; please call Molly Stoddard at (218) 998-4489, or e-mail molly_stoddard@fws.gov. Deadline Sept 18.
Contact: 218-998-4480 or www.fws.gov/midwest/pwlc
Especially for women of any age and girls ages 13 through 20 (who have completed a fire arms safety course), but are somewhat new to pheasant hunting. You may sign-up with a friend, aunt, sister, daughter, or other female relative if you like.
Instructor and guide: Ranae Edwards, avid hunter, certified 4-H and National Rifle Association shotgun shooting instructor and trainer, DNR firearms safety instructor, local Pheasants Forever youth activities director, former Minnesota state volunteer coordinator for the Women in the Outdoors program, and organizer of many outdoors skills events for women
On Saturday, learn safety, biology and natural history information at the PWLC, then practice with clay shooting targets at Grant County Shooters Association Shooting Range. Saturday evening, enjoy cooking and tasting different recipes using pheasant. On Sunday, September 27, enjoy a guided pheasant hunt with planted birds at Viking Valley Hunt Club near Ashby.
Provided: lunches, dinner, breakfast, pheasants, and clays. Bring: your own shotgun (with improved cylinder choke tube), a box each of target and pheasant loads, and blaze orange shirt/hat to wear hunting, plus boots. Dress appropriately for the field rain or shine! Lodging is provided at the PWLC if needed (additional $15 per person per night).
For more info about the Becoming an Outdoors Woman program in MN, please visit http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/education/bow/index.html
The BAELN 2009-2010 Season: "Greening the Economy" is proud to present a, "Green Business is Good Business Tour." Utilizing green business practices for conserving and improving your resources and your bottom line.
Date: Thursday, October 8, 2009, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Location: MN Pollution Control Agency, 7678 College Rd, Ste 105, Baxter/Brainerd
Registration: Free, pre-registration is required by October 5th. Space is limited. To register, send an email to ee-events@pca.state.mn.us (preferred) or call 651-757-2070. (please notify us if you don't receive a confirmation notice). If you have specific questions about the tour, contact Denise Stromme at denise.stromme@pca.state.mn.us or 218-316-3888.
You are invited to join us on the afternoon of October 8th to learn about green business practices in the Baxter/Brainerd area. From 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm we will tour local businesses and engage in lively conversation (transportation provided). We'll visit the Fairview Office Park, Madden's Resort, and the Pollution Control Agency to see what they're doing to be more sustainable and resource-friendly in their work. Examples include: low impact development cost savings, water conservation, green building design, stormwater management, energy efficiency, waste management and more. Come join us for a fun fall afternoon filled with ideas you can put to good use.
The Brainerd Area Environmental Learning Network (BAELN), now in its seventh season, offers people in the environmental field and the community timely information on environmental and sustainability issues, along with the chance to network with others. This season's theme Greening the Economy gives us insight into the jobs, skills and opportunities that the "green jobs" direction offers. BAELN events are held most third Thursdays of the month from 3:00-5:00 p.m. and include an hour-long presentation with time for questions, networking and refreshments. The events are free and all are invited to participate.
** Don't forget the first BAELN event of the season! Growing the resources, the land, the economy, and the community - for the good of us all, Thursday, September 17, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Held at the MN Pollution Control Agency, 7678 College Road, Suite 105, Baxter/Brainerd. Free. All are invited. **
BAELN is a collaborative effort of the following organizations: 1000 Friends of Minnesota, Central Lakes College, Crow Wing County Soil and Water Conservation District, Initiative Foundation, MN Department of Natural Resources, MN Department of Transportation, MN Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Waters, The Nature Conservancy, community member and University of Minnesota Extension.
If you would like to be on the BAELN email list or for general information on BAELN, please contact Stephen Mikkelson at (218) 316-3887, or toll free at 1-800-657-3864.
Upcoming events: 2009-2010 Schedule (subject to change)
Location: MN Pollution Control Agency, 7678 College Rd, Suite 105, Baxter
Times: 3:00-5:00 p.m.
September 17: Growing the resources, the land, the economy, and the community - for the good of us all
October 8: Green Business is Good Business Tour
November 19: Legislative Panel on Green Jobs
December 17: Green Jobs in Minnesota: What does it mean for my community?
January 21: Attacking Poverty through Green Jobs (podcast)
February 18: The Impacts of a Green Workforce on the Economy
March 25 (fourth Thursday): Deconstruction + Reuse = Green Opportunities
April 15: Putting Green Practices into Action: MN GreenCorps and MN Conservation Corps
May 20: Greening Transportation - Northstar Rail
June 17: Training the next generation of green workers (and a few old dogs too)
Sep 19, Timberdash 5K Run/Walk
Saturday, September 19. 10:30 a.m.--12:00 p.m
Location: Saint John's University, Meet at the SJU Soccer Fields
Registration: $5--if pre-registered by Thursday, September 17; $10--walk-in registrations; Email eefellow@csbsju.edu or complete the online form to register now!
Come with your friends and join the Arboretum to experience an enjoyable 5K run/walk through the trails of the Arboretum. All participants receive an Arboretum Timberdash bandana and some snacks at the finish line. There are prizes for the top three male and female finishers as well as an award for the best costume!
Oct 2, Homecoming Open House
Friday, October 2. 2:00-3:30 p.m
Location: Saint John's University, Meet at the Arboretum offices in the New Science Center
Free and open to the public. The Arboretum staff will be hosting an open house in honor of Saint John's homecoming celebration. Come and see our accomplishments over the years and talk with the staff. We can't wait to see you there!
Oct 4, Collegeville Colors
Date: Sunday, October 4, 1:00--5:00 p.m.,
Location: Saint John's University Meet at the Saint John's Preparatory School
Registration: $8 per person (under age 6 is free), $32 max. per immediate family
Preregister by October 1 and save $2 per person (up to $8 per family!)
Call 320-363-3321 or visit the Saint John's Prep Web site to register
Sponsored by the Saint John's Preparatory School and supported by Saint John's Arboretum, Collegeville Colors 2009 is an event for everyone. Spend the first Sunday in October hiking in the woods at Saint John's as you enjoy the fall colors, artwork, theatrical performances, nature activities, and music along the trails - rain or shine!
Oct 20, Alternative Energy in Minnesota
Minnesota Natural History Lecture Series
Presenter: Derek Larson, CSB/SJU professor of environmental studies
Date: Tuesay, Oct 20, 6:30--8:00 p.m., Saint John's University, Meet at the pendulum in the New Science Center
Registraion: FREE for Arboretum members & students of all ages; $5--Nonmembers; no registration necessary!
Teacher-Friendly**
What are the prospects for alternative/renewable energy in Minnesota? Can homeowners, businesses, or entire communities be supported by sun, wind, biomass, or geothermal energy? Is the path to a more sustainable energy future clear? Let's explore some of the options for alternative energy, consider the cost and other barriers, and offer some ideas on how individual consumers (and even the entire state) can make intelligent investments in renewables.
**The Minnesota Natural History Lecture Series will take place the 3rd Tuesday of every month from September to May. All ages are welcome to all of our lectures, however we have designated some lectures as "kid-friendly" when the topics and presentation styles are more suitable for interested kids. A "teacher-friendly" designation is made when classroom resources will be made available for teachers.
Nov 7 and 8, Controlled Deer Hunt
Date: Saturday, November 7 & Sunday, November 8
Location: Saint John's University
$5--application fee; $25--hunting fee; Applications to hunt are due October 6
Mandatory safety meeting: October 22
Saint John's will host a controlled harvest of antlerless deer on November 7 & 8. Conservation of the entire ecosystem is the purpose of the hunt. A large number of deer over-winter at Saint John's, and if that influx is added to a high local population, the result is over-browsing of the tree seedlings, shrubs and annual forbs. The goal is to assure a population level that will allow both adequate regeneration of the forest and a healthy deer herd on the Abbey's 2,700 acres. Read the 2009 aerial deer survey of Saint John's lands.
3rd Annual Arboretum Photo Contest
Entries due November 17; Free and open to the public
3 Categories: Plants & Critters; People at the Arboretum; Earth, Lake & Sky
3 Age groups: Under 18; 18-22; 23 & Up
Step 1: Get out in the Arboretum!
Step 2: Take photos--any time--somewhere within our 2,740 acres
Step 3: Submit your photos--up to 5 photos per category per person!
A panel of judges will select the best photos in each category for each age group. Best in Show will be voted on at the Arboretum Member/Volunteer Appreciation Open House in December.
We need YOU to observe the Metro Children's Water Festival at the MN State Fairgrounds. Attend a NO COST 4-hour training on the evening of September 29, 2009. Observe the Metro Children's Water Festival on September 30th. Help us build a better observation tool, and learn more about best practices for making field days effective. Past participants say "I think completely different after the protocol training and using the evaluation tool in the field. I went back and changed my presentation to allow students to be more engaged in discovery." Email Stephan Carlson carls009@umn.edu or call 612-624-8186 to register or get more information
Be a part of making Minnesota Environmental Field Days more Effective by becoming a trained observer!
You can provide an important service to make the most of MN field days and water festivals. We are seeking around 20 environmental educators, master naturalists or others to help fine tune a new Best Practices for Field Days evaluation tool. A team of professional environmental educators and researchers have been working for two years in developing this observation tool for EE field days and other programs. It has gone through a rigorous development phase, and now we need your involvement in the next phase of the project. In exchange for your help, we are offering this workshop and observation tool for NO COST. We ask that each participant attend both the Field Day Observation Training Session on Sept. 29th from 5:30 pm -9:30 pm, and observation of the Metro Children's Water Festival on Sept. 30th from 8:00am to 3:30pm. Before you write to sign up, please visit this UMN Extension website for more information about Field Days: http://www.extension.umn.edu/FieldDays/
Dates and Locations:
Sept. 29th: Field Day Observation Training Session (5:30pm-9:30pm) at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul campus, Green Hall Room 203. Dinner will be provided. Directions and parking will be emailed to registrants.
Sept. 30th: Metro Children's Water Festival (8:00am-3:30pm) at the State Fairgrounds, St. Paul. Transportation is not provided, but lunch is on us.
To register for this unique opportunity, email Stephan Carlson or call 612-624-8186.
Upon registration, you will be emailed more details about the project. We will provide more information about the Metro Children's Water Festival during the training session.
By observing this field day, you will make an important contribution to demonstrate the success of water festivals and field days and encouraging their continued support.
If you have questions or would like more details, please contact: Stephan Carlson at 612-624-8186 (office).
We look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely, Stephan Carlson
Date: Thursday, October 8, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Location: MN Pollution and Control Agency, lower level boardroom, 520 Lafayette Rd, St. Paul, MN
Registration: Free, but advance registration required as seating is limited. Email ee-events@pca.state.mn.us (preferred) or call 651-757-2070.
Open to all working in the environmental and/or education field
On October 8 you have the opportunity to see and hear this plenary session from the annual environmental education conference in Portland, OR via webcast. The North American Association for Environmental Education is streaming this session live and you're invited to gather with fellow educators at the MN Pollution Control Agency in St. Paul, to watch the webcast and participate in a discussion following the presentation.
The webcast session from 1:45 to 3:15 pm is being presented by the following environmental education leaders from Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.:
Elizabeth Kilvert, Research and Strategy Advisor for Environment Canada
Ruth McCully, Director of US EPA's Office of Children's Health Protection and Environmental Education
Salvador Morelos Ochoa, Head of the Center of Education and Training for Sustainable Development in Mexico.
It's a great opportunity to hear what the leaders have to share, and to discuss the implications and opportunities with fellow educators. We hope you'll join us.
Discussion Facilitator: Britt Carlson, MPCA
This is one of the Environmental Education (EE) Capacity Building efforts hosted by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Environmental Capacity Building is developing effective organizations and individual leaders in order to achieve comprehensive EE programs at the state and local level.
Date: November 6-8, 2009
Time: 8:30 am
Location: Lake Shetek Bible Camp, Slayton, MN
Website: http://www.mnnaturalists.org/workshops.html
Date: Festival is Sept 12, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Location: northeast shore of Lake Nokomis at the intersection of Woodlawn Blvd., East 50th St. and East Lake Nokomis Parkway
Contact: MaryLynn Pulscher at 612-313-7784 or mpulscher@minneapolisparks.org.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Nokomis East Neighborhood Association, in collaboration with Danza Mexica Cuauhtémoc and Community Celebration of Place announce a new festival that celebrates our state's official butterfly - the Monarch.
Monarch Fun Runs
Start the day with the Kids Butterfly Fun Run at 8:45 a.m. or the Run for the Monarchs 5k at 9 a.m. Enjoy the scenery and keep an eye out for Monarchs on a 5k run or walk around Lake Nokomis. Proceeds from the Run for the Monarchs benefit Monarch butterfly habitat in the Minneapolis Parks and the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve located in the state of Michoacan, Mexico. Prizes awarded to runners with the best Monarch wings, antennae and caterpillar look - for children and adults. Day of event registration starts at 7:45 a.m. Pre-register at www.Monarchfestival.org.
Monarch Festival
Each fall millions of Monarch butterflies migrate from the United States to their overwintering grounds in Mexico. Once in Mexico, Monarchs blanket swaths of old fir trees where they are protected from the elements and extreme temperature swings. Monarchs are reliant on nectar to fuel their flight and sustain them while they wait for warmer weather. In order to successfully reproduce in the spring, Monarchs require milkweed from Mexico to Minnesota.
The Monarch Festival will celebrate these amazing butterflies and raise awareness of the need to provide and protect Monarch habitat here in Minnesota and Mexico. Join the celebration with music, dance, storytelling, Monarchs, art and food.
Monarch Stewardship
• Tag & release Monarchs with the University of Minnesota's Monarch Lab.
• Explore the Nokomis Naturescape and look for Monarchs.
• Learn how to entice Monarchs to your yard from the Wild Ones and Blue Thumb.
• Landscape Alternatives and Outback Nursery will be offering native plants for sale so you can add plants to your garden that Monarchs need and love.
• Find out how to get your yard certified as a Monarch Waystation.
Monarch Art & Fun
• Create a Monarch mandala with local artist Richard Bonk.
• Make milkweed seed mudballs.
• Join in the fun with Art in the Park led by the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.
• Play Monarch bingo, Amazing Migration, and Monarch jeopardy.
• Wear your favorite Monarch wings and antennae, or caterpillar look.
Music & Dance
• Danza Mexica Cuauhtemoc
• Larry Long with Fiddlin' Pete and Joe Savage
• Tonia Hughes with Martial Besombes
• 2Wurds
• Mitch Walking Elk
• Papa John Kolstad & Dean Mikkelson
• Anishinabe Medewin Water Ceremony
The Nokomis Naturescape Gardens are located on the northeast shore of Lake Nokomis at the intersection of Woodlawn Blvd., East 50th St. and East Lake Nokomis Parkway. A variety of native wildflowers and grasses are featured in the gardens which have been certified as a Monarch Waystation by the conservation and research organization Monarch Watch. Monarch Waystations contain annual and perennial plants that provide habitat and food sources that are essential to the survival of Monarch butterflies.
The University of Minnesota Shoreland Education News "From Shore to Shore" newsletter is now posted on the website for you to view and/or download. To access it, please go to: http://shorelandmanagement.org/shore_shore/
Dates: Thursday, September 17, October 15, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Location: Minnetonka City Hall Community Room, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka
Registration: free, limited space for Master Naturalists, call 952-988-8400 or email cculbreth@eminnetonka.com. Include name, phone/email, city of residence, and PLEASE indicate you are a Master Naturalist.
Excellent opportunity to learn how to avoid the most common buckthorn removal errors, as well as forest structure and reforestation using native plants. Topics also include saving high value remnant plant species, erosion prevention, ground cover and protection from deer. Handouts provided.
