UPDATE: Please confirm with host organizations about the status of listed events. Many in-person events have been cancelled, or there may be virtual options for some events.
See our Upcoming Events page, or check our community calendar below for upcoming green community events in Minnesota, or submit your own event!
Events in August–September 2018
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- Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
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August 1, 2018Come to our toy lending event to become a member of the toy library. Access to over 1,000 toys appropriate for children age birth to 5.
Richfield Lutheran Church8 W 60th StRichfield, MN 55419 -
- GUARDIN' ROOTS Play Reading
GUARDIN' ROOTS Play Reading
GUARDIN' ROOTS Play Reading
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August 10, 2018You are invited to the reading of the play GUARDIN' ROOTS by Mohammed Ali Ojarigi!! GUARDIN’ ROOTS is a unique story that explores the power of Urban Gardening through a recently released ex-con who attempts to
re-enter his community.Disclaimer: There is some vulgar language used in the play
To learn more about the playwright: http://www.momentsplayhouse.comThe evening will consist of a public reading of the play, Food Symposium Meet and Greet, Refreshments, Q & A and a community dialogue discussing the community-based research report Not For Human Consumption, restorative justice, healthy food access, and food sovereignty.
Shiloh Temple International Ministries1201 Broadway Ave. N.Minneapolis, MN 55411 -
- Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
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August 15, 2018Come to our toy lending event to become a member of the toy library. Access to over 1,000 toys appropriate for children age birth to 5.
Richfield Lutheran Church8 W 60th StRichfield, MN 55419 -
- Summer work night at Ole Olson
Summer work night at Ole Olson
Summer work night at Ole Olson
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August 28, 2018Ole Olson Park in north Minneapolis is known for its top-notch walking and biking trails and stunning skyline views, but we want it to be recognized for even more. Join Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) on August 28, from 6-8pm as we return to this riverfront park to tend an important native demonstration prairie garden along the bike trail. This summer work night will help further our long-term transformation and commitment at this site and to the river. Although a small urban site, Ole Olson is a surprisingly diverse landscape, including riverfront shoreline, woodland terrace, and grassland slopes. We look forward to transforming the park into an oasis of habitat and respite — returning willows to the shoreline, wildflowers to the slopes and majestic oaks to the terraces – and keeping it that way.
As always, all are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/08/28/summer-work-night-ole-olson-parkOle Olson ParkRegister to receive detailed directionsMinneapolis, Minnesota 55411Register at https://fmr.org/events/2018/08/28/summer-work-night-ole-olson-park
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- Toy Lending Event, Lop sumac at Grey Cloud Dunes SNA
Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
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August 29, 2018Come to our toy lending event to become a member of the toy library. Access to over 1,000 toys appropriate for children age birth to 5.
Richfield Lutheran Church8 W 60th StRichfield, MN 55419Lop sumac at Grey Cloud Dunes SNALop sumac at Grey Cloud Dunes SNA
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August 29, 2018Located in Cottage Grove, this highly protected Scientific and Natural Area (SNA) features two sandy terraces along the river. Grey Cloud Dunes SNA is a sight to see. Help us further our restoration efforts at this special site!
After a brief orientation, volunteers will work with Friends of the Mississippi River ecologists to help remove sumac, a shrubby tree that would otherwise overtake this vital habitat. Other tending or restoration tasks may also be needed at this very important site.
Due to tool usage, including loppers and saws, this event is not suitable for youth. Please also note Grey Cloud SNA does not feature amenities – trails or restrooms.
Capacity is limited, in part to tread lightly on this special place but also to make sure everyone has a chance to ask questions about the site's ecology. To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/08/29/lop-sumac-grey-cloud-dunes-sna -
- Lop fruiting buckthorn along the river gorge
Lop fruiting buckthorn along the river gorge
Lop fruiting buckthorn along the river gorge
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September 6, 2018A surprisingly beautiful and rare oak savanna and woodlands can be found just off the main trail along the Minneapolis side of the river gorge.
Come join Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) on September 6, from 6-8pm, to help restore and protect the woodlands just north of the oak savanna by lopping fruiting branches of female buckthorn to stop another year's worth of seed from dropping and spreading. The rapidly spreading shrub is able to invade many different forest types, where it then crowds out native species such as young oaks and maples.
No experience is needed. All tools, gloves, and training will be provided. However, be prepared to work on steep slopes and uneven terrain. Due to the tools and terrain, this event is not suitable for small children.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/06/lop-fruiting-buckthorn-along-river-gorge -
- Toy Lending Event, Buckthorn Beer Bash, Buckthorn Beer Bash
Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
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September 12, 2018Come to our toy lending event to become a member of the toy library. Access to over 1,000 toys appropriate for children age birth to 5.
Richfield Lutheran Church8 W 60th StRichfield, MN 55419Buckthorn Beer BashBuckthorn Beer Bash
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September 12, 2018We’d like to buy your first beer and say “THANKS” for restoring healthy land and water across Minnesota.
Join our volunteers, donors, partners, and board members for an evening of great beer, games, and good company.
Admission is FREE for you and a guest.
Space is limited - RSVP TODAY to save your spot:
greatrivergreening.org/events/2018-buckthorn-beer-bashSummit Brewing Company910 Montreal CircleSaint Paul, MN 55102Admission is FREE for you and a guest.
Buy TicketsBuckthorn Beer BashBuckthorn Beer Bash
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September 12, 2018We’d like to buy your first beer and say “THANKS” for restoring healthy land and water across Minnesota.
Join our volunteers, donors, partners, and board members for an evening of great beer, games, and good company.
Admission is FREE for you and a guest.
Space is limited - RSVP TODAY to save your spot:
greatrivergreening.org/events/2018-buckthorn-beer-bashSummit Brewing Company910 Montreal CircleSaint Paul, MN 55102Admission is FREE for you and a guest.
Buy Tickets -
- Help restore Farmington's Rambling River Park
Help restore Farmington's Rambling River Park
Help restore Farmington's Rambling River Park
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September 13, 2018Rambling River Park is a beautiful 76-acre park located in Farmington bordered on the south and east by the Vermillion River. The Vermillion River is a unique resource that provides vital wildlife habitat, scenic beauty and recreational opportunities such as kayaking and trout fishing. The Vermillion is also a major Mississippi River tributary and directly feeds drinking water wells in Hastings.
On September 13, from 6-8 pm, volunteers will work closely with Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) staff and fellow volunteers to remove and haul buckthorn from this important site. Buckthorn is extremely hardy, and out-competes native plant species that are vital for increased habitat and biodiversity.
No experience is needed and all are welcome! All tools, gloves, and training will be provided. To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/13/help-restore-farmingtons-rambling-river-park -
- Shoreline Planting in Doyle-Kennefick, Shoreline Planting in Doyle-Kennefick
Shoreline Planting in Doyle-Kennefick
Shoreline Planting in Doyle-Kennefick
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September 15, 2018Registration is required:
https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events/shoreline-planting-in-doyle-kennefick/Doyle-Kennefick is a planned regional park located in Central Scott County between St. Catherine and Lennon Lakes. Volunteers will plant native shrubs and flowers along the shoreline to restore the wetland area in this 1860s farm.
This future park is currently in the acquisition and stewardship phase. Once fully acquired, it will include 1,139 acres of striking landscape including native hardwood forest, oak savanna, prairie, and pristine wetlands scattered across a rolling glacial topography. Planned amenities include a nature center/outdoor discovery center, 13 miles of hiking and nature trails, 8 miles of bike trails, picnic shelter, trail head, and renovation and re-use of farmstead structures.
Light snacks and lunch will be provided!
Recommended to ages 8 and up, children must be supervised.Partners and Funders:
Scott County, Three Rivers District, Outdoor Heritage Fund, National Turkey Federation, and Scott-Le Sueur MN Waterfowl AssociationSome Considerations:
• Open to all ages (Family-Friendly)
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Geography of the Site: Flat, Unpaved, and Rustic4150 235th St. EElko New Market, MN 55020Shoreline Planting in Doyle-KennefickShoreline Planting in Doyle-Kennefick
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September 15, 2018Registration is required:
https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events/shoreline-planting-in-doyle-kennefick/Doyle-Kennefick is a planned regional park located in Central Scott County between St. Catherine and Lennon Lakes. Volunteers will plant native shrubs and flowers along the shoreline to restore the wetland area in this 1860s farm.
This future park is currently in the acquisition and stewardship phase. Once fully acquired, it will include 1,139 acres of striking landscape including native hardwood forest, oak savanna, prairie, and pristine wetlands scattered across a rolling glacial topography. Planned amenities include a nature center/outdoor discovery center, 13 miles of hiking and nature trails, 8 miles of bike trails, picnic shelter, trail head, and renovation and re-use of farmstead structures.
Light snacks and lunch will be provided!
Recommended to ages 8 and up, children must be supervised.Partners and Funders:
Scott County, Three Rivers District, Outdoor Heritage Fund, National Turkey Federation, and Scott-Le Sueur MN Waterfowl AssociationSome Considerations:
• Open to all ages (Family-Friendly)
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Geography of the Site: Flat, Unpaved, and Rustic4150 235th St. EElko New Market, MN 55020 -
- Lop buckthorn and honeysuckle at the newly protected River Heights Park
Lop buckthorn and honeysuckle at the newly protected River Heights Park
Lop buckthorn and honeysuckle at the newly protected River Heights Park
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September 18, 2018Join Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) on Tuesday, Sept. 18 from 6-8pm at the recently saved River Heights Park to begin restoration work. Thanks to dozens of community members, the Inver Grove Heights city council unanimously voted to save River Heights Park in May of 2018. In addition to providing a natural area valued by residents, River Heights Park is part of our local national park, the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area, as well as the Mississippi River Flyway — an internationally significant migratory corridor used by millions of birds and other wildlife throughout the year.
Volunteers will be working alongside FMR ecologists to help clear out buckthorn and honeysuckle shrubs in the park to improve conditions so native plants can thrive. No experience is needed however, registration is required. All tools, gloves, and training will be provided. Participants should be prepared to work on uneven terrain. Due to the tools and terrain, this event is not suitable for small children.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/18/lop-buckthorn-and-honeysuckle-newly-protected-river-heights-parkRiver Heights ParkRegister to receive detailed directionsInver Grove Heights, Minnesota 55076 -
- Plant shrubs and forbs near the rare Oak savanna
Plant shrubs and forbs near the rare Oak savanna
Plant shrubs and forbs near the rare Oak savanna
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September 19, 2018Join Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) staff and volunteers on September 19, from 6-8pm, working along the beautiful and rare Oak savanna and woodlands located just off the main trail along the Minneapolis side of the river gorge. We will spend the evening planting shrubs and forbs helping to build a buffer of native plant populations around the prized Oak savanna area and will help to re-establish native vegetation where buckthorn has been removed.
This event is specifically supported by the local neighborhood group, the Longfellow Community Council, and Longfellow area residents are urged to register! The event is also part of the Gorge Stewards program, which actively engages citizens throughout the Twin Cities in the stewardship of the national treasure that is the Mississippi River Gorge.
All are welcome and no experience is needed. However, be prepared to work on steep slopes and uneven terrain. To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/19/plant-shrubs-and-forbs-near-rare-oak-savannaMississippi River GorgeWest River ParkwayMinneapolis , Minnesota 55406 -
- Collect native prairie seed at Heritage Village Park, Jamming for Justice on the Upper Harbor
Collect native prairie seed at Heritage Village Park
Collect native prairie seed at Heritage Village Park
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September 22, 2018Located just 15 minutes south of downtown St. Paul in Inver Grove Heights, Heritage Village Park is a 50-acre site along the banks of the Mississippi River. In 2005, Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) wrote a natural resource management plan to help guide restoration of the park. Today, the park has over 30 acres of restored, native prairie, as well as areas of floodplain forest along the Mississippi River. FMR will continue to partner with the city of Inver Grove Heights at the site, working to return the site to oak savanna, its historic natural community. Oak savanna is one of Minnesota's most imperiled habitats, occurring one one-tenth of one percent of its historic coverage.
On Saturday, September 22, from 9-11am, volunteers will work alongside FMR staff to collect much-needed native prairie grass seed. This native grass seed will be redistributed throughout the park and neighboring Rock Island Swing Bridge Park. All are welcome however, space is limited. No experience is needed, all tools, gloves, and training will be provided.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/22/collect-native-prairie-seed-heritage-village-park.
Jamming for Justice on the Upper HarborJamming for Justice on the Upper Harbor
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September 22, 2018We need your voice for environmental justice on the Upper Harbor Terminal in North Minneapolis!
This year, the City of Minneapolis is redeveloping a 48 acre stretch of land on the North bank of the Mississippi, the largest city-owned swath of land in the United States.
This land and the community surrounding it has been plagued by polluting industries that have separated the people of North Minneapolis from the Mississippi River for decades. It’s time for a new vision for the Upper Harbor - a vision that is rooted in community and equity, that doesn’t gentrify, that creates jobs for North Minneapolis residents, that provides green space and green business opportunities for the northside.
3800 1st St NMinneapolis, MN 55412 -
- Family Orchard Crawl
Family Orchard Crawl
Family Orchard Crawl
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September 23, 2018Join Family Fun Twin Cities at Fischer's Croix Farm Orchard for traditional orchard fun: Corn Maze, Straw Mountain, Wagon Ride, Apple Picking, Food Truck, Crafts, Games, LEGO building and a Hoedown!
12971 St. Croix Trail SouthHastings, MN 55033$5 for ages 4+; Free for ages 3 and under
Buy Tickets -
- Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek, Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek, Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek, Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek, Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
Floodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
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September 25, 2018Located in Farmington, South Creek helps feed the Vermillion River, a cold prairie river flowing through the heart of Dakota County and an important tributary of the Mississippi River. Earlier this summer, Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) volunteers removed invading buckthorn, making space for native plants to thrive. On Tuesday, September 25 from 6-8pm, volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to plant native plugs and distribute seeds along this floodplain forest. These plants will further restoration progress, increasing biodiversity along the low-lying floodplain. Additionally, volunteers may be asked to help with other general tending or restoration tasks.
All are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. All supplies and training will be provided and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, helping Vermillion River Watershed residents learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/25/floodplain-forest-planting-along-vermillion-rivers-south-creekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South CreekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
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September 25, 2018Located in Farmington, South Creek helps feed the Vermillion River, a cold prairie river flowing through the heart of Dakota County and an important tributary of the Mississippi River. Earlier this summer, Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) volunteers removed invading buckthorn, making space for native plants to thrive. On Tuesday, September 25 from 6-8pm, volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to plant native plugs and distribute seeds along this floodplain forest. These plants will further restoration progress, increasing biodiversity along the low-lying floodplain. Additionally, volunteers may be asked to help with other general tending or restoration tasks.
All are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. All supplies and training will be provided and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, helping Vermillion River Watershed residents learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/25/floodplain-forest-planting-along-vermillion-rivers-south-creekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South CreekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
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September 25, 2018Located in Farmington, South Creek helps feed the Vermillion River, a cold prairie river flowing through the heart of Dakota County and an important tributary of the Mississippi River. Earlier this summer, Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) volunteers removed invading buckthorn, making space for native plants to thrive. On Tuesday, September 25 from 6-8pm, volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to plant native plugs and distribute seeds along this floodplain forest. These plants will further restoration progress, increasing biodiversity along the low-lying floodplain. Additionally, volunteers may be asked to help with other general tending or restoration tasks.
All are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. All supplies and training will be provided and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, helping Vermillion River Watershed residents learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/25/floodplain-forest-planting-along-vermillion-rivers-south-creekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South CreekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
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September 25, 2018Located in Farmington, South Creek helps feed the Vermillion River, a cold prairie river flowing through the heart of Dakota County and an important tributary of the Mississippi River. Earlier this summer, Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) volunteers removed invading buckthorn, making space for native plants to thrive. On Tuesday, September 25 from 6-8pm, volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to plant native plugs and distribute seeds along this floodplain forest. These plants will further restoration progress, increasing biodiversity along the low-lying floodplain. Additionally, volunteers may be asked to help with other general tending or restoration tasks.
All are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. All supplies and training will be provided and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, helping Vermillion River Watershed residents learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/25/floodplain-forest-planting-along-vermillion-rivers-south-creekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South CreekFloodplain forest planting along Vermillion River's South Creek
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September 25, 2018Located in Farmington, South Creek helps feed the Vermillion River, a cold prairie river flowing through the heart of Dakota County and an important tributary of the Mississippi River. Earlier this summer, Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) volunteers removed invading buckthorn, making space for native plants to thrive. On Tuesday, September 25 from 6-8pm, volunteers will work closely with FMR staff to plant native plugs and distribute seeds along this floodplain forest. These plants will further restoration progress, increasing biodiversity along the low-lying floodplain. Additionally, volunteers may be asked to help with other general tending or restoration tasks.
All are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. All supplies and training will be provided and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, helping Vermillion River Watershed residents learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/25/floodplain-forest-planting-along-vermillion-rivers-south-creek -
- Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
Toy Lending Event
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September 26, 2018Come to our toy lending event to become a member of the toy library. Access to over 1,000 toys appropriate for children age birth to 5.
Richfield Lutheran Church8 W 60th StRichfield, MN 55419 -
- Prairie seed collection at the Sand Coulee SNA, Prairie seed collection at the Sand Coulee SNA, Podcast at Carlos Avery WMA
Prairie seed collection at the Sand Coulee SNA
Prairie seed collection at the Sand Coulee SNA
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September 29, 2018On Saturday, Sept. 29, from 9:30-11:30 am, volunteers will work with Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) Lead Ecologist Karen Schik in the natural area most recently added to the Sand Coulee Scientific & Natural Area. After a brief training on the importance of seed collecting and identification, volunteers will help hand collect much-needed native prairie seed while enjoying this rare example of a sand-gravel prairie in full fall bloom. Seed will be used for further habitat restoration. This is especially important as the Sand Coulee provides a home to 13 rare plant and animal species.
Previous experience is not required, all are welcome. However, this activity is very detail-oriented, and generally best suited for teenagers and up. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, providing opportunities for hands-on stewardship of this unique cold prairie river and its watershed.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/29/prairie-seed-collection-sand-coulee-snaSand Coulee SNARegister to receive detailed directionsHastings, MN 55033Prairie seed collection at the Sand Coulee SNAPrairie seed collection at the Sand Coulee SNA
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September 29, 2018On Saturday, Sept. 29, from 9:30-11:30 am, volunteers will work with Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) Lead Ecologist Karen Schik in the natural area most recently added to the Sand Coulee Scientific & Natural Area. After a brief training on the importance of seed collecting and identification, volunteers will help hand collect much-needed native prairie seed while enjoying this rare example of a sand-gravel prairie in full fall bloom. Seed will be used for further habitat restoration. This is especially important as the Sand Coulee provides a home to 13 rare plant and animal species.
Previous experience is not required, all are welcome. However, this activity is very detail-oriented, and generally best suited for teenagers and up. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, providing opportunities for hands-on stewardship of this unique cold prairie river and its watershed.
To learn more and register, visit https://fmr.org/events/2018/09/29/prairie-seed-collection-sand-coulee-snaSand Coulee SNARegister to receive detailed directionsHastings, MN 55033Podcast at Carlos Avery WMAPodcast at Carlos Avery WMA
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September 29, 2018Registration is required:
https://www.greatrivergreening.org/events/podcast-at-carlos-avery-wma/Join Great River Greening for our first public event at the Carlos Avery State Wildlife Management Area. Volunteers will plant pollinator friendly plugs including common, butterfly, and whorled milkweed at the Sunrise Unit. NOTE: This event has a later start time.
The restoration activities will restore help the prairie and oak savanna site and improve the natural habitat for pollinators, especially monarch butterfly. This event is occurring during waterfowl hunting season, although far from the popular game area. Safety orange vests will be provide to volunteers.
Partners and Funders:
MN DNR, Ramsey County Correctional Facility, Outdoor Heritage Fund, and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation - Monarch Conservation FundSome Considerations:
• Age: Family-Friendly
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Geography of the Site: Flat, Unpaved, Open6690 East Viking Blvd.Wyoming, MN 55092