1 BioBlitz 2013 Lake Vermilion State Park, Sept. 14, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Help scientists, naturalists and other DNR staffers inventory the various plant and wildlife species at Minnesota's newest state park. Look for lichens, insects, birds, dragonflies, butterflies, fungus and perhaps a few surprises. 1-218-753-2245 or www.mndnr.gov.
2 Flood Plain Walk Fort Snelling State Park, Sept. 14, 2-3 p.m. Most of this state park is situated on the low-lying Minnesota River flood plain. Tour the area with a naturalist to learn how the plants and animals have adapted to drought, flooding and other environmental stressors. 612-725-2724 or www.mndnr.gov.
3 Fall Archaeology Festival Whitewater State Park, Sept. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Choose from a variety of activities: Climb the historic Elba Fire Tower, visit a ghost town cemetery, learn about the German POWs imprisoned here during WWII. Archaeologists from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse will present an "Artifacts Roadshow," so bring your own treasures for assessment. 507-932-3007 or www.mndnr.gov.
4 Full Moon Walk #1
Lowry Nature Center, Sept. 19, 7:30-9 p.m., Meet with a naturalist for a guided walk through Carver Park's moonlit prairie and woodlands. Bonus: This month's program includes a lesson on Minnesota snakes. Learn about the park's native snakes species as you stroll. $5. More information at www.threeriversparks.org.
5 Full Moon Walk #2
The Landing-Minnesota River Heritage Park, Sept. 19, 7:30-9 p.m., Another naturalist-led option, this moonlit walk offers the same education on Minnesota snakes, but it's set to a very different environment — riverbanks and the Minnesota River's refractive waters. $5. More information at www.threeriversparks.org.
