Led by Justin Nooker and Laurie Arzaga, this is the second in a series of hikes to explore the effects of burning. After a 15-year absence, a portion of the prairie was burned this past March. Come see how beautifully the prairie plants have responded and learn why fire plays such an important role in the health and resilience of prairie ecosystems. You will also get to see the progress that has been made with the first phase of the restoration project that began in the fall of 2023 and wrapped up in December of 2024. This ongoing project is a partnership with The Prairie Enthusiasts, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, and Minnesota Land Trust. WHAT TO BRING: Water, sun protection, insect repellent, and hat, long pants and hiking shoes are recommended. A walking stick would also come in handy. RSVP Laarzaga@gmail.com DIFFICULTY: Moderate to difficult going up the slope, but we will be going slow with lots of stops along the way to talk and enjoy the beauty of the prairie. Sponsor: The Prairie Enthusiasts
Come join us for an evening presentation as we learn about the science, history, classification, and folklore of the various celestial bodies that make up our wondrous solar system! Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
- Sunday, August 3 10-11am
- Whitewater State Park Visitor Center, 19041 MN-74, Altura, MN
Have you ever looked up at the sky and seen images in the stars? Well, you are not alone; people have been seeing pictures in the night sky for thousands of years! Learn about the constellations in our night sky, what purposes they serve, and even create your own constellation with a naturalist! For more info, contact Carolyn Kocken at 507-312-2301 or by email at carolyn.kocken@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
International Owl Awareness Day Celebration
- International Owl Center, 126 E Cedar St, Houston, MN
We will have an OPEN HOUSE at the Owl Center in honor of International Owl Awareness Day plus other activities around Houston! Admission is free, but donations of non-perishable food items for the Houston Community Food Shelf are appreciated. There will be short programs at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00. Then we'll have our special Great Horned Owl Soap Opera program covering our director's vocal research on Great Horned Owls at 3:00 (about 75 minutes). *Please note that many programs may be standing room only, with the morning programs expected to be the most crowded and those later in the day the least crowded. There will be door prizes at the Owl Center, owl-themed beverages at Barista's Coffee Shop, hand-dipped ice cream with owl faces at River Valley Convenience Store, and owl-themed burgers at JT's Bar & Grill. *Please note that many programs may be standing room only, with the morning programs expected to be the most crowded and those later in the day the least crowded. Sponsor: International Owl Center
Nature Explorers: Make a Walking Stick
- Frontenac (MN) State Park
This is one in a free series of nature programs for children ages 3-6. Learn about nature in the Lake Pepin area with stories, crafts, and outdoor exploration. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Additional sessions: Sept 2 (Catch a Butterfly), Oct 7 (Spooky Critters). Sponsors: Project Get Outdoors and Frontenac State Park Association
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Monarch butterfly |
Sponsors: Friends of Trempealeau Refuge, Shirley M. Wright (Trempealeau) Memorial Library.
- Print out the property brochure and map ahead of time to be sure you know where to go.
- Consider loading the free Merlin app on your phone to help you identify birds by sound.
- Wear good walking shoes, and consider spraying your shoes and pants for ticks ahead of time.
- Binoculars and a walking stick are optional items you may wish to bring along.
- Saturday, August 9 10am-11:30am
- Forestville Mystery Cave Park Visitor Center
- Perrot State Park Interpretive Center, 26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI 54661
Join Abbey and Joe Krumrie from River Valley Raptors for an interactive program with live raptors. Learn about each bird's unique features and how it has adapted to survive. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Sponsor: Perrot State Park
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Milky Way Image - Lloyd Lorenz |
Night Sky
- Wildcat Mountain (WI) State Park
Become a “backyard astronomer” with help from the Northwest Suburban Astronomers. Observe deep sky objects through telescopes. Learn to use constellations and other “landmarks” to find space objects. Info: Emily.Alf@wisconsin.gov 608-337-4775 Sponsor: Wildcat Mountain State Park
MORE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS OF WHERE EVENT IS LOCATED:: If you are coming from Highway 76 onto State Forest Road you will travel about 5.8 miles and the red barn and windmill will be on your left. If you are coming from the Lansing Harpers Rd onto State Forest Road, the red barn/ windmill will be about a half mile down the road on the right. We can’t guarantee what all you will see that night, but the Perseid Meteor showers rarely disappoint. You don't need to RSVP, but if you would please click "going" if you are going to attend that would help us plan. If you bring a flashlight or use your phone light, red cellophane is recommended to help keep your night vision at its peak. We also encourage the downloading of Sky Map or other night sky apps to your phone, to help learn star names and constellations. Sponsor: Friends of Yellow River State Forest.
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Indigo bunting Image -Daniel Irons. Merlin Bird ID |
- Frontenac (MN) State Park - meet at the campground shower building/kiosk
Walk through a mixed habitat of prairie and woodland looking for nesting birds that specialize in these areas, including Baltimore Orioles and perhaps some Orchard Orioles as well as Eastern Bluebirds, Clay-colored Sparrows and up to 6 species of woodpeckers. The trail is mowed grass and is well maintained. Bring your binoculars or borrow some from the park office. No need to register. If you have any questions, email janetmalotky@gmail.com. This event is free. Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. Permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual sticker. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park Association and Frontenac State Park
- Saturday, August 30 7-8:00 pm
- Perrot State Park Interpretive Center, 26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI 54661
- Sunday, August 31 11 am.-1 pm
The peregrine falcon has long fascinated people across the globe, known for its dramatic migration and amazing flight. Where 60 years ago there were none, today nearly 350 nesting pairs of falcons make their home in the Upper Midwest. Jackie Fallon, with the Midwest Peregrine Society, will present this program with several live birds to help us understand the past, present and future of peregrine falcons in Frontenac State Park, Minnesota, and the Upper Midwest. Make sure to bring your camera for a great opportunity to see these amazing birds. The event will take place right next to the ranger station. This event is free. Vehicles need to display a valid MN State Park Permit upon entering park. Please stop by the office or purchase beforehand. $7 one-day permit, $35 year-round permit. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park Association and Frontenac State Park