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)