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Bluebirds, photography, maple sugaring: A full slate at Minnesota parks

Host of programs at state and regional parks.

March 22, 2018 at 4:41PM

Photos by Jim Williams 2. An Eastern bluebird heads to his nest with one of hundreds of daily insect meals. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

All about bluebirds

Afton State Park

10-11 a.m. Saturday

Bluebirds are one of Minnesota's most admired songbirds, yet most people have never seen one. Learn about their life history and how you can help restore their populations. (651-231-6968, mndnr.gov)

Photographing loons

Lake Maria State Park

1-2 p.m. Saturday

Photographer John Pennoyer will share his knowledge of the loon: its behavior, nesting and chicks. Pennoyer will talk about techniques and watercraft use for getting the perfect picture. (763-878-2325, mndnr.gov)

Maple sugaring

Whitewater State Park

10-11:30 a.m. or 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday

Tap trees, and gather and boil sap. Call 1-507-312-2308 to register. (mndnr.gov)

Wild River State Park

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Learn the basics of syrup-making. You will need a vehicle to drive to another location to tap the trees. Call 651-583-2125, ext. 227, to register. (mndnr.gov)

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2:30 p.m. Saturday or Sunday

Learn the history and process. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Fort Ridgely State Park

2-3 p.m. Saturday

Tap trees, and collect and boil sap. (1-507-384-8890, mndnr.gov)

Eastman Nature Center

1-4 p.m. Sunday

Drop in anytime. (763-694-7700, threeriversparks.org)

Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park

5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday

Tour the maple syrup operation at Cedar Lake Farm, and learn the process. Cost is $5. Reservations are required. (763-694-7777, threerivers parks.org)