Stream trout 101

Whitewater State Park

10 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday

Learn about the trout that inhabit the streams of this region in preparation for the trout opener April 18. Trout Unlimited member and avid trout fisherman Jim Clark will talk about the species found in our local streams, their natural history and habitat requirements. He'll also discuss tips for selecting fishing equipment and navigating small trout streams. More information: 1-507-932-3007 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

Maple syrup

Maplewood State Park

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday

Stop by the park's trail center any time between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to learn about the process of making pure maple syrup. Take part in collecting the sap, or watch and learn about the boiling process. You can sample a taste of pure maple syrup. More information: 1-218-863-8383 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

Orienteering

French Regional Park

Noon-3:30 p.m. Saturday

Find your way through the woods the old-fashioned way. You will learn map and compass skills from Minnesota Orienteering Club experts. Families and people of all abilities will learn through classroom instruction, skill stations geared for beginners, guided practice courses and an official "sprint" course with electronic punching. Cost is $13 for preregistration and $18 for registration Saturday. Call 763-559-6700.

Coyotes and Cousins

Lowry Nature Center

3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday

Explore furs, skills, tracks and more to compare and contrast Minnesota's native canines. Drop in anytime at the nature center in the middle of the Carver Park Reserve, located in Victoria. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. More information: 763-694-7650 or threeriversparks.org.

Bird trek

Rapids Lake Education and Visitor Center

8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Sunday

Join us for a bird walk in Carver at one of the many Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge units during spring migration. The Rapids Lake unit is a great place to see early spring songbird migrants. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on this walk. Bring along your binoculars, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather. More information: www.fws.gov/refuge/Minnesota_Valley or 952-361-4500.