Weekend at Minnesota parks: Butterfly tagging, wildlife photography, paddling opportunities

Minneopa State Park

1-2 p.m. Friday

Monarchs, which migrate from Minnesota to Mexico, have declined in numbers over the past decade. Learn how tagging monarchs and tracking their migration patterns can provide information about their biology and conservation. (1-507-384-8890, mndnr.gov)

Sibley State Park

4-5 p.m. Friday

If trees could talk, what would they say? Eavesdrop on the underground "conversations" of trees and catch a rare glimpse of the mysterious social network known as the Wood Wide Web. (1-320-354-2055, mndnr.gov)

Photos in the wild

William O'Brien State Park

2-3 p.m. Saturday

Learn some tips and tricks for nature photography. Bring a camera (smartphone works, too). There also are a limited number of cameras to check out. Meet inside the visitor center. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Archery pointers

Fort Snelling State Park

10 a.m.-noon Saturday and 1-3 p.m. Sunday

Learn how to use a compound bow. The program is for ages 8 and older. All equipment is provided. Stop by the beach area anytime during the program. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov).

Lake Maria State Park

10 a.m.-noon Sunday

Learn the basics of canoeing on lakes. Cost is $25 (for three people per canoe). Must be 5 or older. Reservations required; visit mndnr.gov/reservations or call 1-866-857-2757.

Lowry Nature Center

2-4 p.m. Sunday

Meet captive raptors. Drop in anytime. This program is free. (threeriversparks.org)

Lowry Nature Center

9 a.m.–noon Saturday

Wild songbirds will be trapped, studied, banded and released. (763-694-7650, threeriversparks.org)

9-11 a.m. Saturday

Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park

Learn kayaking safety and proper paddling. Equipment provided. Cost is $20. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. This program is for ages 8 and older. (763-694-7777, threeriversparks.org)

Various state parks

Monday

A total solar eclipse is happening Monday across the United States. (The path of totality courses across the country, but Minnesota will see a partial eclipse). Special glasses to safely view it will be provided. Go online to see details about viewing events at Afton, Itasca, Sibley and other state parks. (mndnr.gov)