Maple syruping
There are myriad programs this weekend, all involving the history and production of maple syrup in Minnesota.
Fort Snelling State Park
1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
• All about the history and the process. Help make some, too. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)
Whitewater State Park
10 a.m. to noon or 1-3 p.m. Saturday
• Reservations required. Call 507-932-3007, ext. 226, or e-mail sara.holger@state.mn.us. (mndnr.gov)
Minneopa State Park
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday
• Meet on the waterfalls side of the park. (507-384-8890; mndnr.gov)
Fort Snelling State Park
1-2:30 p.m. Sunday
• Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)
Wild River State Park
1-2:30 p.m. Sunday
• You will need a vehicle to drive to another location to tap trees. Meet at the visitor center. Note: Syrup will not be processed at this program. (651-583-2125, ext. 227; mndnr.gov)
Photo hike
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
9-11 a.m. Saturday
Head to the Wilkie Unit to see the changing seasons. Meet in the parking lot. Dress for muddy conditions. (952-361-4500, fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley)
Art of the fire
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
9-noon Saturday
Nancy Dardis, an exhibitor in the art gallery for March and April, is conducting a live wood burning demonstration in the visitor center in Bloomington. (952-361-4500)
Digiscoping
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
1- 3:30 p.m. Saturday
Have you ever tried taking photos with a digital camera and spotting scope? It's a fun way to get wildlife photos using an SLR or smartphone camera. Join National Park Service ranger Sharon Stiteler to learn more about the photo technique.
Nature walk
Silverwood Park
1:30-2:30 p.m. Sunday
Watch and listen for birds and wildlife. Bring binoculars if you have them. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (763-694-7707, threeriversparks.org)
Walk with a photographer
Silverwood Park
8-9 a.m. Wednesday
Join fellow photographers, share photo tips. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. (763-694-7707, threeriversparks.org)