Also on tap are photo hikes, digiscoping instructionals and nature walks.
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
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)
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)
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.
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)
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)
It’s too soon to tell how much the immigration crackdown is to blame.
