Sunday May 18

7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. - 

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. - Capnote Speaker - Sharon Day

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sessions

The Naturalist’s Guide to All Things Loony!

Presenters:  Maddi Nistler & 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 on-the-water session will dive into the physical and behavioral characteristics that make Common Loons unique, as well as aspects of the intricate ecological network of freshwater ecosystems. We will take a boat tour of Gull Lake and discuss some best practices that you can adopt to better protect loons from the environmental conflicts we see today. 

Level of activity:  Inactive

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, intermediate

Presenter biographies:


Learning Lichen Loving – Fundamentals of Lichen Identification

Presenters:  Tanner Barnharst

Description:  The workshop will give you hands on time with dozens of lichens enabling you to learn about lichens intuitively. You will become familiar with the primary lichen forms and features needed for identification all while getting hands on time with lichens from Minnesota.

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

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Exploring Wetland Delineations: A Hands-On Approach to Soils, Plants, and Hydrology

Presenters:  Rebecca Beduhn

Description:  We will discuss key indicators used to differentiate wetlands from adjacent uplands, including soil saturation, organic matter content, and plant communities. Working in teams, attendees will dig soil pits at different landscape positions, comparing soil properties, vegetation, and hydrology across the gradient.  The session will include a discussion on the ecological benefits of wetlands and an overview of Minnesota-specific wetland regulations.

Level of activity:  Moderately active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate

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Tours, Treks, and Trail Hikes: Guiding Groups in the Outdoors

Presenters:  Griffin Bray

Description:  As nature enthusiasts, we love getting outside and sharing the natural world with others. But how can we do that most effectively, especially with larger groups of people? Take a walk with us and explore proven techniques that can help you elevate your education and interpretation hikes. We will go outdoors, so please prepare for the weather.

Level of activity:  Moderately active (walking, standing)

Audience Experience Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

Presenter biographies:

MNAtlas: Learn to Use the Online, Easy Mapping Tool You Didn’t Know You Needed!

Presenters:  Will Bartsch & Cindy Hagley

Description:  Bring your laptop, tablet, or a computer-carrying friend and get acquainted with the online Minnesota Natural Resource Atlas, an interactive mapping tool designed for speed and ease of use. The Atlas is paired with 500+ data layers, from A (agriculture) to W (water, watersheds).

Level of activity:  A little bit active

Audience Experience Level: Beginner

Presenter biographies:

Pelicans-Their Their Beak Can Hold More Than Their Belly Can!

Presenters:  Amy Rager

Description:  American White Pelicans are more frequently seen across Minnesota in recent years.  Come and learn all about the history and life cycle of these amazing large waterbirds.

Level of activity:  

Audience Experience Level: 

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12:00 p.m. - Lunch 

12:30 p.m. - Awards ceremony and conference closing