Programs at state and regional parks also include other insects, raptors.
Afton State Park
10-11 a.m. Friday
A program on all things monarch butterflies. Meet in the visitor center. (651-231-6968, mndnr.gov)
Wild River State Park
10-11:30 a.m. Saturday
Help catch and tag monarchs. Limited number of nets. (651-583-2125, ext. 227, mndnr.gov)
Prairie seed collection
Crow-Hassan Park Reserve
10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday
Help restore the prairie by collecting native wildflower seeds at the reserve. Learn about the prairie's rich history and how to identify many of the plants. Volunteers must be at least 16 or be accompanied by an adult. To register, call 763-559-6700. (threeriversparks.org)
Lowry Nature Center
9 a.m. - noon Saturday
See wild songbirds up close as they are safely trapped, studied, banded and released. Drop in anytime and bring your camera. Reservations are required for groups. Groups should call 763-694-7650 to make a reservation. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (threeriversparks.org)
Lowry Nature Center
2-4 p.m. Sunday
Meet birds of prey. Cameras are OK. Drop in anytime. Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (threeriversparks.org)
Richardson Nature Center
3-4 p.m. Sunday
Part of Free Family Fun Days: Get into the prairie and investigate.
Whitewater State Park
10:30 a.m.-noon Sunday
An introduction to trout fishing for inexperienced anglers, families and youth groups. Fishing equipment will be provided, but bring your own bait (worms often work best). Fishing licenses and trout stamps are not required. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the South Picnic Area every Sunday through Sept. 4. (1-507-932-3007, mndnr.gov)
It’s too soon to tell how much the immigration crackdown is to blame.
