Do This Now: Editor-selected events at state, regional and local parks

1 St. Paul Bird, Buck, Bait & Boat Expo

Minnesota State Fairgrounds, through March 9

This brand-new expo features an assortment of gadgets and gear for fishing and hunting, plus displays of artistic taxidermy, information on hunting and fishing camps, even an opportunity to snap photos with real baby bears. $10. More information: www.sham rockprod.com.

2 Minnesota Deer Classic

National Sports Center, through March 9

Now in its 32nd year, this long-running expo gathers the latest deer-hunting products and gear as well as exhibitors representing hunting lodges and guided hunting trips. Visitors can also sample educational seminars on hunting dogs, habitat management and more. $10. More information: www.nscsports.org.

3 Bird banding

Drop by this open house-style event to observe songbirds as they are trapped, studied and banded with numbered rings. Learn how to identify birds in the hand. Lucky eventgoers will even hear a bird's heartbeat or help release a bird. More information: www.threeriversparks.org.

4 Maple syruping in your back yard

Fort Snelling State Park March 8 and 9, 1-2:30 p.m.

Designed for residents of the metro area, this close-to-home workshop offers lessons on equipment, tapping, processing and, best of all, tasting. Note: The March 8 event is geared to women. March 9 is open to all. More information: 612-725-2724 or www.mndnr.gov.

5 GreenFit Club