Weekend events: Bird bonanza, wildflower walk, astronomy, fishing with kids
May 22, 2015 at 12:10PM
St. Croix State Park
Friday-Sunday
Celebrate all things feathered at the seventh annual event. Count bird species during a marathon game, get involved in a banding demonstration, and enter a photo contest. This event is designed for birders of all ages and experience levels. More info: 1-320-384-6615 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.
Wildflowers
Afton State Park
7-8 p.m. Friday
Meet at the visitor center to take a 1-mile early evening stroll with a park naturalist. See what is in bloom and find out what will bloom next. More info: 651-231-6968 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.
Park history
Whitewater State Park
7-8 p.m. Friday
The park once held German prisoners during World War II. Come to the visitor center for a look back at the history. More info: 1-507-932-3007.
Night sky
William O'Brien State Park
9 p.m. Saturday
Meet at the visitor center. The program will start indoors with a program on the evening sky and will end outdoors with views through a telescope. If it is cloudy, the indoor program still will happen. More info: 651-433-0500 or www.mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.
Family archery
Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park
9-11 a.m. Saturday
Head to New Prague to learn the basics of shooting safely and accurately. Shoot stationary targets and compete in games. Equipment provided. Cost is $7 and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation and reference activity number 227701-02. There is a 20 percent discount for groups of four or more. This program is for ages 8 and older.
I Can Fish!
Whitewater State Park
10 a.m.-noon Sunday
Equipment will be provided at this free program designed to introduce families to trout fishing. Bring your own bait; worms often work best. Fishing licenses and trout stamps will not be required. More info: 1-507-932-3007 or www.mndnr.gov/ican. The state's "I Can" programs also cover paddling, mountain biking, climbing and camping.
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None of the boat’s occupants, two adults and two juveniles, were wearing life jackets, officials said.
