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

November 20, 2014 at 9:05PM

DAVID JOLES * djoles@startribune.com Fort Snelling, MN - Jan. 10, 2010- The DNR and REI teamed up to promote snow sports on national Winter Trails Day at Fort Snelling State Park. Folks new to winter sports were invited to discover snowshoeing, geocaching and other winter activities. Last year the event brought more than 1,000 people to the park. Here, a young whitetail buck peers up while grazing in the park along the Minnesota River. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

1 Bird-watching trek

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Nov. 22, 8-10:30 a.m.

Meet at the Wilkie Unit (7701 County Rd. 101 E, Shakopee) for a guided hike to see migratory birds including ducks, geese, maybe tundra swans. Bring binoculars and a field guide. Dress for the weather. More information: 952-858-0715 or www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley.

2 Tree detective

Fort Snelling State Park, Nov. 22, 1-2 p.m.

Meet at the visitor center for a lesson on trees. Learn how to identify the park's various species and how they survive the winter. More information: 612-279-3550 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

3 Tundra swan field trip

Whitewater State Park, Nov. 22, 1-3 p.m.

Meet at the visitor center for a short presentation on tundra swans before driving caravan-style to Weaver Bottoms on the Mississippi River. Binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Bring your own transportation. Check for cancellation in case of poor weather. More information: 507-932-3007 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

4 Turkey watch

Cleary Lake Regional Park, Nov. 22, 1-3 p.m.

Take a naturalist-led hike in search of the park's wild turkey population. $5. Reservation required; 763-559-6700. More information: www.threerivers parks.org.

5 Turkey tracks

Elm Creek Park Reserve/ Eastman Nature Center, Nov. 23, 1-4 p.m.

Hyland Lake Park Reserve/Richardson Nature Center, Nov. 23, 3-4 p.m.,

Everything you ever wanted to know about wild turkeys — learn about their habits, habitats and calls. These drop-in events are free and open to all ages. More information: 763-559-6700 or www.threerivers parks.org