Saturday May 18

• $53  

• 4:45 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 

• Bus leaves from Fair Hills Resort  | Maximum registrations - 10

• The pristine woodlands of Tamarac Refuge are host to 25 species of warblers including the Golden-winged Warbler. Nearly 43,000 acres make up this premier bird refuge of Northwestern Minnesota. Tamarac’s wildlife biologist will be on board to guide you through the mosaic of habitats including pine and hardwood forests, lakes, rivers, marshes and brushy grasslands. You’ll trek into key sections of the refuge for the best views. Sturdy boots or knee high rubber boots are recommended for the short hikes through brushy terrain. The refuge has a bird list of 258 species, so there will be plenty of feathered friends to see here. Birds we’ll be looking for: American Woodcock, Scarlet Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, vireos, 25 species of warblers including Golden-winged, Solitary Sandpiper, Trumpeter Swans, Ruffed Grouse, nesting Bald Eagles and Common Loons. 

• NOTE: This field trip is offered and conducted by the Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds. Ten seats on this field trip are reserved for Gathering Partners participants, so you may register for this field trip along with the rest of your Gathering Partners registration OR you can register separately for it on the Festival of Birds website where they have more seats available. The bus for this trip will pick up 10 participants at the Fair Hills Resort at 4:45 AM and return to the resort around noon. If you register for this trip through the Festival of Birds website, you should either provide your own transportation to/from the pick up site at M State College  in Detroit Lakes or send a message to gatheringpartners@umn.edu to request to be included in the Fair Hills pick up/drop off. 

• $53  

• 4:45 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 

• Bus leaves from Fair Hills Resort  | Maximum registrations - 10

NEW FIELD TRIP SITE: The vast Rothsay habitat complex in Wilkin County comprises a large 4200-acre contiguous grassland unit surrounded by several thousand acres of high quality wet mesic prairie. This area is full of freshwater springs and home to the last remaining cold water trout stream in northern Minnesota. On the way we will bird an area of recently restored wetlands in the Haugtvedt Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) which is likely to produce shorebirds that gravitate to freshly restored wetlands. Once in the Rothsay complex we will bird some of the best remaining remnant prairies in Minnesota and walk some private land where we expect to see Marbled Godwits and other open prairie grassland birds. We’ll plan to stop at the Western Prairie Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) where we will concentrate on LaConte’s sparrows, Sedge Wrens and other wet mesic species. Adjacent to this site is a recently restored prairie stream along a 2-mile stretch of a new habitat complex which should be a great location to see and hear Greater Prairie Chickens. Birds we’ll be looking for: Greater Prairie Chickens; Western and Eastern Kingbirds; Baltimore and Orchard Orioles; Loggerhead Shrike; Eastern Meadowlark; Sandhill Cranes; a myriad of spring migrating Warblers; Clay Colored, Vesper, Field, Song and Chipping Sparrows; Marbled Godwits; Greater Yellowlegs; additional shorebirds and waterfowl; Le Conte’s Sparrow and Trumpeter Swans. In addition, the rare Poweshiek Skipperling butterfly has been seen in the area.

NOTE: This field trip is offered and conducted by the Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds. Ten seats on this field trip are reserved for Gathering Partners participants, so you may register for this field trip along with the rest of your Gathering Partners registration OR you can register separately for it on the Festival of Birds website where they have more seats available.  The bus for this trip will pick up 10 participants at the Fair Hills Resort at 4:45 AM and return to the resort around noon. If you register for this trip through the Festival of Birds website, you should either provide your own transportation to/from the pick up site at M State College  in Detroit Lakes or send a message to gatheringpartners@umn.edu to request to be included in the Fair Hills pick up/drop off. 

• $53  

• 4:45 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 

• Bus leaves from Fair Hills Resort  | Maximum registrations - 10

NEW FIELD TRIP SITE: Smoky Hills Forest gets its name from the hazy gray hue that arises in the morning from the pine, maple and oak trees on the hilly terrain. Lof woods is a mosaic of trails through pine, aspen and birch trees. We’ll stroll among the early spring wildflowers and hear the songs of migrating woodland warblers. This is the perfect trip to brush up on your warbler identification as experienced leaders will help identify the abundance of woodland warblers and other understory ephemerals. We’ll divide into small groups as the habitats of this trip lend an outstanding opportunity to see birds at close range. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes as we will be slowly walking on mowed trails with gentle slopes. Birds we’ll be looking for: Ovenbird; warblers including Golden-winged, Black and White, Tennessee, Nashville, Northern Parula, Chestnut-sided, Blackpoll and Pine; Eastern Towhee; Scarlet Tanager and vireos. Wildflowers we’ll be looking for: Hepatica, Bloodroot, Ginger, Wood Anemone, Large-flowered Bellwort, Sessile-leaf Bellwort, Large-flowered Trillium, Marsh Marigold, Early Meadow Rue, and violets. 

NOTE: This field trip is offered and conducted by the Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds. Ten seats on this field trip are reserved for Gathering Partners participants, so you may register for this field trip along with the rest of your Gathering Partners registration OR you can register separately for it on the Festival of Birds website where they have more seats available.  The bus for this trip will pick up 10 participants at the Fair Hills Resort at 4:45 AM and return to the resort around noon. If you register for this trip through the Festival of Birds website, you should either provide your own transportation to/from the pick up site at M State College in Detroit Lakes or send a message to gatheringpartners@umn.edu to request to be included in the Fair Hills pick up/drop off. 

Presenters:  Ana Stockstad and Angela Gupta

Description:  As Minnesota’s climate changes, forests will face pressures from diseases and insects, heavier and more frequent rainfalls, warmer temperatures and prolonged drought. One way to foster a healthy, resilient woodland is by adding and encouraging species that are predicted to adapt well to these changes. To help people choose appropriate species for their woodlands, UMN Extension used modeled climate response data to create regionally-specific recommendation lists of climate-resilient trees and plants (z.umn.edu/climateready). Through adoption of these recommendations, woodland stewards can holistically improve forest health by enhancing the resilience of Minnesota’s woods to climate change.

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner

Presenter Biographies:

• Anna Stockstad is a Forestry Extension Educator with University of Minnesota Extension based in Cloquet, MN. She provides education to woodland stewards across northern Minnesota on forest ecosystem health, forest stewardship and climate adaptation. She is the lead instructor of the Minnesota Woodland Steward program, which is a comprehensive educational program that teaches woodland stewards the foundations of forest stewardship. She is also a contributor to the Climate-Ready Woodlands program and delivers climate adaptation programs for woodland stewards in northern Minnesota. She has a MS in forest soil science and a BS in forestry from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. 

• Angela Gupta is a University of Minnesota Extension Professor of Forestry who specializes in terrestrial invasive species, climate ready woods and is a founding member of the MN Women’s Woodland Network. She’s done invasive species early detection education and outreach and has been a part of the MN Women’s Woodland Network since 2008. Angela earned a MA in Organizational Management from Spring Arbor University and a BS in Forestry from the University of Kentucky. Before joining Extension, Angela was an industrial forester working with private landowners in Michigan and a US Peace Corps Agroforestry Extensionist in Kenya, East Africa.

Presenters: Deanna Leigh and Angela Miner

Description:  MN PlantWatch is a community science initiative that supports the conservation of Minnesota's rare native plants. Volunteers search for plants in their natural habitats, collect important data about species location, population health and potential threats, and contribute to conservation seed banking. We will share program updates and stories from our 2023 season along with a field update from 2024. Learn what it is like to volunteer, future goals for the program and how you might become involved. 

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

Presenter biographies:  

• • Deanna Leigh is a Community Science Program Coordinator with the DNR's Minnesota Biological Survey. She holds a BS in Environmental Studies from Trinity Western University and a MS in Environmental Science from Western Washington University. She pursued various natural resources and field research opportunities across North America before returning to her home state of Minnesota in 2017 for a position with DNR Parks and Trails. She joined MN PlantWatch in April 2023 and is thrilled to be working with rare species. 

  • Angela Miner is the Conservation Botanist for the University of Minnesota's Landscape Arboretum (UMLA).  She works with the UMLA's Plant Conservation Program to conserve, research, and bank seed for MN's rare plant species.  She holds a degree in Conservation Biology from the University of Minnesota, has worked with habitat management and restoration with The Nature Conservancy, and began working with the MN PlantWatch program in the spring of 2023. 

Presenter: Karl Koenig

Description:  In 2016, a landowner reported the presence of Flowering Rush near her lakefront property in Becker County. Karl Koenig, the local AIS Coordinator, collaborated with DNR staff and lakeshore property owners to manage this species. The aim was to protect wildlife habitat and lake-based recreation. This presentation will showcase examples from across the state, including this one, to demonstrate how monitoring and early detection efforts can tackle the challenges posed by invasive species in Minnesota's lakes. 

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biography:  Karl Koenig works as an Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator at the Becker Soil and Water Conservation District in Detroit Lakes. He has been involved in AIS since 2012 when he returned to his home state of Minnesota after obtaining a B.S in Resource Conservation from the University of Montana.

Presenter: Larry Weber

Description:  The summer of 2024 is very unusual in that there will be an emergence of the 17-year and 13-year cicadas; first time at this site in more than 200 years. This phenomenon will not happen in Minnesota; best seen in the neighboring states of Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. However, having witnessed these events before, I will speak of their value to see and hear.

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

Presenter biography:  Larry Weber is a retired teacher and currently a nature writer. He writes a weekly phenology column for a Duluth newspaper and has authored about 20 books: Spiders, Butterflies, Fungi, Phenology and Teaching Phenology. He has taught Minnesota Master Naturalist, Road Scholar, and University for Seniors and given many nature presentations. He has two weekly radio programs emphasizing local phenology.

Presenters:  Elizabeth Mboutchom, Annie Knight

Description:  Dive into sustainable land protection strategies! Join us for a presentation on watershed-based conservation, where we explore proactive approaches to preserve precious landscapes. Discover the relationship between wildlife habitats and water quality. This presentation delves into proactive land protection strategies crucial for preserving wildlife habitats and maintaining pristine water quality. Elevate your understanding of land protection strategies and learn how conservation efforts can secure the future of our natural heritage and help sustain our outdoor culture and economy. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to the preservation of our shared environment.

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biographies: 

• • Elizabeth, a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, holds a Masters in Environmental Management, specializing in freshwater resources. Her commitment to conservation was demonstrated during her Peace Corps service in Madagascar, where she combined education with forest preservation. Elizabeth returned to Minnesota, fostering civic engagement around clean water at The Nature Conservancy. Now with Northern Waters Land Trust, Elizabeth focuses on preserving northern Minnesota's pristine lakes and rivers. Cherishing the luxury of swimmable and fishable waters in her home state, she strives to safeguard these precious resources. 

  • Annie specializes in collaborating with landowners, partner organizations, and lakes associations to implement effective conservation strategies. With a degree in Environmental Studies from Saint Benedict College, Annie is contributing her expertise to Northern Waters Land Trust’s land protection programs. She channels her passion for nature into identifying protection priorities and safeguarding these natural treasures for current and future generations. Annie's commitment to conserving the lakes of northern Minnesota reflects her deep appreciation for the joy they bring, motivating her to build relationships to effectively preserve our waters.

Presenter:  Gary Wyatt

Description: Are you growing any unique, unusual, out of the hardiness zone plants in your landscape?  Do pick Juneberries in June or persimmons before the frost or harvest chestnuts to roast at your family Christmas?  This session will encourage open dialogue in discussing perennial edible fruits, nuts and woody decoratives that you can grow in your backyard or community landscapes.  Perennial edibles to be discussed include, Hazelnuts, Aronia Berry – Black Chokeberry, Juneberry, Elderberry, Honeyberry, Chestnuts, Persimmons and Cranberry to mention a few.   

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner

Presenter biography: Gary Wyatt is an Agroforestry Extension Educator and Extension Professor with the University of Minnesota Extension in the Extension Regional Office in Mankato, MN.  Gary promotes sustainable Agroforestry practices that are economical and protect our soil, water, wildlife and natural resources.  Current issues include: Silvopasture, living snow fences, invasive species, windbreaks, riparian buffers, forest farming, bio-energy crops (willows & poplars), eco-system services, tree and shrub selection, community & school food forests, edible and decorative woody plants, and non-timber forest products.  Gary has more than 40 years of Extension experience in Minnesota.  

Presenter:  Eli Sagor

Description: From small farmers to the state tree seedling nursery, there's a network of seed buyers hoping to grow tree seedlings to be planted across the region. In addition to "baseline" tree planting activity, this seedling stock is needed to support assisted migration efforts to ensure forest resilience to a changing climate. The need for seed means there's also a growing need for tree seed collectors in Minnesota! We'll discuss the basics of seed collection, how careful observation of tree seed development can help seed collectors, and how you can get involved in deeper learning and seed collection. 

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biography: Eli Sagor is a University of Minnesota Extension Forestry Specialist and Natural Resources Program Leader. He manages the Sustainable Forests Education Cooperative, with 52 public and private organizational members. Since joining Extension in 2000, Eli has taught forest ecology, forest management, and climate adaptation content to Minnesota woodland owners, professional natural resource managers, logging contractors, and others. 

Presenter:  Barb Thoman

Description: Chloride is a threat to Minnesota's water, animals, and plants. Chloride sources include road deicing salts, fertilizers, water softeners, and more. In the Twin Cities metro alone, 350,000 tons of road salt is used annually for deicing. Statewide, 67 water bodies are impaired by chloride and chloride levels are increasing. Learn about the impacts, what is being done, and how you can help solve this growing problem. There will be a give away for one Ultimate 12 inch ice scraper during this session- a $60 value. 

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner

Presenter biography: I am a Minnesota Water Steward and a Master Naturalist volunteer. I am retired after a career in state and county government and non-profits. My focus was making change in solid waste management and later transportation.  I joined a group called StopOverSalting in 2017 and I do education on chloride reduction with the Capitol Region Watershed District. I have a strong interest in native plants.

Presenters:  Lee Pfannmuller, Gerald Niemi, Janet Green

Description:  Braving clouds of mosquitos, traipsing across marshes, or driving trails that were never meant for a car, are among the challenges encountered by birders who contributed to Minnesota’s Breeding Bird Atlas. Conducted over five breeding seasons, from 2009 to 2013, the atlas mapped the diversity and distribution of the state’s breeding avifauna at a finer geographical scale than has ever been done in the past. The results provide detailed data to guide local conservation and land-use planning efforts and a foundation for monitoring future change. This session will explore how the atlas was implemented, the results, and venues for accessing the data.

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

Presenter biographies:

• •  Lee’s career included 30 years with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources working with the Nongame Wildlife Program, the Natural Heritage Program, and the Scientific and Natural Areas Program and as Director of the Division of Ecological Resources. After retiring from the MNDR, she worked with Audubon Minnesota as Planning Coordinator and Interim Executive Director. Because birds were always her professional and personal love, she was engaged full-time with the Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas from 2009 to 2023, including converting the atlas results into an interactive website and a book titled: The Breeding Birds of Minnesota: History, Ecology and Conservation.

  • Dr. Niemi is a retired professor of biology. From 1988 to 2008 he was director of the Center for Water and the Environment at the Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota-Duluth. His research focused on birds, the Great Lakes, conservation, and natural resource sustainability.

  • Janet C. Green has been observing and studying Minnesota birds since the 1960s. She has been involved with the National Audubon Society, the Duluth and Minnesota Audubon Societies, the Minnesota Ornithologists' Union, and DNR Advisory Committees. Author of many Minnesota bird books and guides, she is cofounder of the Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve.

Presenters:  Angela Gupta, Scott Fluegel

Description: If you’re familiar with invasive plants and hoping to dive deeper into the murky confusion caused by hybridization but also want to leave energized about Minnesota’s future forests this session is for you. We’ll explore the confusion and current state of knowledge about highbush cranberry, mulberry, barberry and buckthorn hybridization. We’ll end with hopeful updates from the Environment and Natural Resource Trust Fund funded Cover it Up project that’s explored using native understory plants to prevent buckthorn regeneration. 

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Intermediate

Presenter biographies: 

• • Angela Gupta is a University of Minnesota Extension Professor of Forestry who specializes in terrestrial invasive species, climate ready woods and is a founding member of the MN Women’s Woodland Network. She’s done invasive species early detection education and outreach and has been a part of the MN Women’s Woodland Network since 2008. Angela earned a MA in Organizational Management from Spring Arbor University and a BS in Forestry from the University of Kentucky. Before joining Extension, Angela was an industrial forester working with private landowners in Michigan and a US Peace Corps Agroforestry Extensionist in Kenya, East Africa.

  • Scott Fluegel is a retired Army Chaplain. His first Master Naturalist Course was Prairies and Potholes, Fall of 2021. The following year he completed the BWBR biome course. Both biome capstone projects involved identifying and eradication of invasive terrestrial plants. Since High School, Scott has been an avid Birder. Scott earned a BA from Metropolitan State University, a Mdiv from Bethel Seminary, and a MS in Counseling from Columbus State University of Georgia.

Presenter:  Janet Nelson

Description:  Would you like to start using iNaturalist but not really sure where to start? Do you use iNaturalist but aren't really sure what it's doing? Learn how to navigate your way through creating/posting observations and how you can improve your photos so your observations can reach the "Research Grade" level. We will also learn how to add observations through the website from a computer. After classroom time, we will walk the grounds at Fair Hills and create observations.

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biography:  Janet Nelson has been a MNat volunteer since 2010 and an instructor since 2017. She has provided classes in camera skills and nature photography for MNats and the public. She uses her skills as a certified forensic photographer to add both general and quality scientific observations to iNaturalist.

Presenter:  Anne Jaeger

Description:  Research shows that spending just 2 hours/week in a natural setting can statistically reduce blood pressure, anxiety, and depression.  Why is this?  What is the most recent science behind how nature recalibrates our systems and at the same time increases creativity, focus and deepens relationships.  We'll start indoors with a discussion/presentation before getting outside to experience some activities that you can use anywhere you spend time outside.  Bring your own knowledge, experience and curiosity to this lively session!

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

Presenter biography:  Anne Jaeger (she/her,) has been an outdoor educator for over 25 years and is known for creating adventuresome and safe learning experiences for people ages 3 to 93 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, is a graduate of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), a Leave No Trace (LNT) Master Educator, MN Master Naturalist Instructor, PSIA Nordic ski instructor and is currently fascinated with dragonflies.  Her travels have taken her from the rivers and eskers of the Arctic Circle to the mountains and glaciers of Patagonia.  

• Presenter:  Sushma Reddy

• Description:  Dr. Sushma Reddy is the Breckenridge Chair of Ornithology at the Bell Museum of Natural History and Associate Professor in Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at the University of Minnesota. Sushma serves on the Executive Committee of the American Ornithological Society, which recently made a historic decision to re-name all eponymous English common names of North American birds. Sushma will share and answer questions about this recent historic decision and the science and culture of bird naming.

• Level of activity:  Inactive

• Audience Experience Level: All levels

Presenter:  Lucas Rapisarda

Description:  This workshop will first look at the challenges of teaching natural history to adult English Language Learners in Minnesota. After some examples, we will dive into best practices of working with adult English Language learners. The workshop will include hands-on application of teaching techniques using curriculum developed by Nature for New Minnesotans, a Minnesota Master Naturalist project that adapts programming for adults learning English! By the end of the session, participants will have been exposed to culturally responsive teaching techniques, as well as given a tangible roadmap to working with adult English Language learners participating in Nature for New Minnesotans. 

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biography:  Lucas Rapisarda is a PhD student at the University of Minnesota, as well as the program director of Nature for New Minnesotans.

Presenters:  Elaine Evans and Elise Berstein

Description:  Calling all bumble bee enthusiasts! Are you interested in participating in the Minnesota Bumble Bee Atlas to survey for bumble bees? Join Elise and Elaine from the MN Bumble Bee Atlas as they gear up for the 2024 survey season! Program leaders will explain the survey process, including essential protocols, how to enter data into Bumble Bee Watch, bumble bee photo tips, what to know about our endangered rusty patched bumble bee, and answer any questions. Weather permitting, we will get outside to practice collecting bumble bees and taking photos. 

Level of activity:  Moderately active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

Presenter biographies:  

• • Elaine Evans is a University of Minnesota Extension Educator and researcher working on pollinator education and research relating to bee conservation. She completed her M.S. and Ph.D. in Entomology at the University of Minnesota. She has authored several books: “Befriending Bumble Bees: A Guide to Raising Local Bumble Bees” and “Managing Alternative Pollinators”. Her work helps to monitor pollinators, improve the impact of pollinator habitat, raise awareness of the importance of pollinators, and provide action steps for pollinator conservation.

  • Elise Bernstein is an outreach specialist and researcher with the University of Minnesota Bee Squad. Elise oversees the Minnesota Bumble Bee Atlas project, a community-science based project aimed at tracking and conserving Minnesota's bumble bees. She also assists in conducting bumble bee research and leads pollinator-centric outreach across the Twin Cities area. Elise holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Minnesota where she studied environmental science, policy, and management with a focus in environmental education and communication, alongside a minor in public health.

Presenters: Joe Walewski and Jonny Tostenson

Join Wolf Ridge Naturalist and field guide author, Joe Walewski, to explore the invisible, the magical, and the mystical worlds of lichens, mosses, and ferns. You'll learn about lichens, mosses, and ferns while also learning about powerful practices and tools for naturalists everywhere. Be prepared to slow down, notice surroundings, gather information, and share with others.

Level of activity:  Moderately active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biographies:

• • Joe - Joe has been a Wolf Ridge Naturalist since 1988 on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Though his passions might appear to be about lichens, mosses, and ferns, he is actually most interested in how to be a better naturalist. Joe discovered the world of birds a few years ago. Don't be surprised if he becomes distracted by a warbler during a session - it's May in a different habitat after all!

  • Jonny - "I am a naturalist and environmental educator that has worked with all sorts of students, including K-12 learners in formal classroom settings and nonformal environmental learning centers, as well as adult learners. I am mostly interested in observing, learning from, and teaching about the small, insignificant things that can be found in nature if you just slow down and look. You will often find me leaning against a tree or lying on the ground, hand lens at the ready. 

Presenters:  Maddi Nistler and Natasha Bartolotta

Description:  We’re all a little loony for Minnesota’s state bird! Whether you only know Common Loons by their iconic calls, or you are a long time loon watcher, these charismatic birds will never stop surprising you. This session will include a tour of Pelican Lake on Fair Hills Resort’s boat cruise to give you an up close and personal introduction to the physical and behavioral characteristics that make Common Loons unique. For those curious about loon related citizen science and volunteer opportunities, we will also discuss ways that you can be an advocate for loons in Minnesota.  This is a repeat offering of the pontoon tour on Friday afternoon.  Fee: $0 - Included with conference fee thanks to a sponsorship by the National Loon Center.

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Presenter biographies:  

• • Maddi Nistler is a member of the Minnesota Green Corps program serving as Community Outreach and Readiness personnel at the National Loon Center in Crosslake, MN. Her life-long love for the outdoors and inner workings of the natural world has led her to become a Master Naturalist and advocate for Common Loons. Since moving here from Colorado in 2019, Maddi has continued to share her passion for wildlife with others through the Loon Center and beyond. She can often be found off the grid with a fishing rod, or talking to trees and local squirrels.

  • Natasha Bartolotta joined the National Loon Center in November of 2021, migrating to the Midwest all the way from the Northeast. She became a Minnesota Master Naturalist in 2022 and this past year co-taught the North Woods, Great Lakes course at the NLC. Natasha is an avid hiker, kayaker, reader, and baker (and eater) of bread.

Description:  Join Bell Museum curators in the process of preparing mammal & bird specimens. This session will include ID and dissections in order to collect data, preserve samples, and produce specimens for the Bell Museum natural history collections.  Maximum registration - 12

Join Maplewood State Park Manager, Don Del Greco for a tour of Minnesota's 5th largest state park. The tour will begin with a a hike to the Hallaway Hill Overlook (approx. 1.4mi). During this gentle hike you'll get the opportunity to stop to hear several stories and topics ranging from ecological tension zones between the hardwood forests and prairies, to birding, archeology, geology, and more. Next you'll explore the scenic park drive through the heart of Maplewood to learn more about the park. Finally, the tour will wrap up at the Maple Syrup Sugar House to hear the park's maple syrup stories. Learn more about Maplewood State Park here.

No fee. This field trip is included as part of your full conference or Saturday Only registration.  Bus transportation will be provided from Fair Hills Resort.