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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mrvac.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Minnesota River Valley - Audubon Chapter
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TZID:America/Chicago
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260322T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260322T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260114T044819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T050447Z
UID:10000231-1774166400-1774175400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue \nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk.  For these spring walks\, the birds observed will change as the season unfolds. Expect waterfowl on the March and April walks\, followed by sparrows and warblers on the walks in May. We will get to know the birds that migrate through the refuge each spring and those that stay to nest on the refuge. Bring along your binoculars\, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather\n.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, March 22\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/7194/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260326T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260326T210000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260226T170325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T171209Z
UID:10000254-1774553400-1774558800@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Chapter Meeting\, March 26\, 2026 (Zoom Only)
DESCRIPTION:John Mittermeier of American Bird Conservancy\, “Search for Lost Birds”
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-chapter-meeting-march-26-2026-zoom-only/
LOCATION:MN
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260114T054742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T054742Z
UID:10000235-1776067200-1776076200@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue \nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk.  For these spring walks\, the birds observed will change as the season unfolds. Expect waterfowl on the March and April walks\, followed by sparrows and warblers on the walks in May. We will get to know the birds that migrate through the refuge each spring and those that stay to nest on the refuge. Bring along your binoculars\, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather\n.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Monday\, April 13\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-20/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T193000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260210T170111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T135816Z
UID:10000252-1776101400-1776108600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group (SIG) Outdoor Bird Walk on second Monday evenings
DESCRIPTION:Please join MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group for outdoor photography bird walks. \nWe will meet at 5:30pm.  The location is Old Cedar Avenue Bridge.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-photography-special-interest-group-sig-outdoor-bird-walk-on-second-mondays/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T100000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260122T053112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T144652Z
UID:10000249-1776499200-1776506400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Nine Mile Creek Birding Trip
DESCRIPTION:Nine Mile Creek Birding Trip\nApril 18\, 2026\n8:00 am\nRob Daves\n612-710-2626 \nWe’ll be looking for early migrants and visiting a prairie remnant to see early spring wildflowers.\nDifficulty: A few very steep trail segments on an otherwise easy grade along the creek.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/nine-mile-creek-birding-trip/
LOCATION:Nine Mile Creek Trailhead\, 1826 W 106th Street\, Bloomington\, Minnesota\, 55431
ORGANIZER;CN="Rob Daves":MAILTO:rob_daves@yahoo.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T170000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260114T053523Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T053523Z
UID:10000234-1776499200-1776531600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk.  For these spring walks\, the birds observed will change as the season unfolds. Expect waterfowl on the March and April walks\, followed by sparrows and warblers on the walks in May. We will get to know the birds that migrate through the refuge each spring and those that stay to nest on the refuge. Bring along your binoculars\, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather. \nDate & Time: Saturday\, April 18th from 8:00-10:30 a.m. \nLocation: Bass Ponds – 2501 86th St. E\, Bloomington\, 55425 MN \nRegistration Information: Registration required on SignUp.com. Which is available on the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges Website.  Please indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. This program is capped at 25 participants. \nActivity Level: Easy-active\, but with a short but steep downhill walk from the parking lot. We will walk slowly and make frequent stops. \nMeet Us: Meet at the upper Bass Ponds trailhead near the parking lot. Please consider carpooling with others in your party due to limited parking. \nWhat to Bring: If you have them\, bring along binoculars and a favorite field guide. This program is held entirely outdoors\, please dress appropriately for the weather. A cancellation notice will be sent via email to registered participants in the event of severe weather. \nAccessibility: Restrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short but steep downhill walk from the parking lot. This walk takes place on mostly flat ground on a paved service road\, wooden boardwalks\, and natural surface paths. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may not be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call or email the refuge for accommodations: 952-854-5900 or minnesotavalley@fws.gov. \nProgram Leader: This program is led by Volunteer Naturalist Craig Mandel. Craig has been leading bird walks on the refuge for more than two decades. For questions about these walks\, please contact Craig at 952-240-7647. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to this event for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, closed captioning or other accommodation needs to MinnesotaValley@fws.gov by close of business two weeks before the date you wish to attend.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-19/
LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260419T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260419T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260114T055201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T055237Z
UID:10000236-1776585600-1776594600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue \nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk.  For these spring walks\, the birds observed will change as the season unfolds. Expect waterfowl on the March and April walks\, followed by sparrows and warblers on the walks in May. We will get to know the birds that migrate through the refuge each spring and those that stay to nest on the refuge. Bring along your binoculars\, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather\n.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, April 19\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-21/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T210000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260226T170008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T171312Z
UID:10000255-1776970800-1776978000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Chapter Meeting\, April 23\, 2026 (In Person and Zoom)
DESCRIPTION:Heather Holm\, “What’s the Buzz with Native Bees?” \nSocial/snack time starts at 7pm.  Program begins at 7:30pm.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-chapter-meeting-april-23-2026-in-person-and-zoom/
LOCATION:MVNWR – Bloomington Visitor Center\, 3815 American Blvd. E.\, Bloomington\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T170000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260123T170549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T170549Z
UID:10000250-1777100400-1777136400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Hastings Bird Festival
DESCRIPTION:Hastings Area Earth Day Birding Festival\nand\nYouth Birding Competition \nFor registration information on the festival\, visit the Carpenter Nature Centers website.  Then go to their annual events page and click on the earth day birding festival link.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/hastings-bird-festival/
LOCATION:Carpenter Nature Center\, 12805 St. Croix Trail S.\, Hastings\, Minnesota\, 55033
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20251215T131019Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T135417Z
UID:10000217-1777104000-1777113000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob - Bass Ponds on April 25\, 2026
DESCRIPTION:We will meet at 8:00am at Bass Ponds Trailhead in Bloomington. \nPlease dress appropriately for the weather.  Bring water\, binoculars\, and birding apps or guides.  Call or text Bob 651-775-7982 if you have questions.  Inclement weather may affect this event.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob-bass-ponds-on-april-25/
LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260504
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260116T162730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T162730Z
UID:10000247-1777593600-1777852799@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Salt Lake Weekend
DESCRIPTION:Salt Lake Weekend\nMay 1 – 3\, 2026 \nInformation about this event is available on the Minnesota Ornithologist Unions website. \nThe registration link should be available there soon. \nBut there are links for lodging and other information on the event available there.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/salt-lake-weekend/
LOCATION:MN
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260502T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260502T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260114T224627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T022255Z
UID:10000237-1777708800-1777717800@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 2 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CST\nFree\nBirdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge.  Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 2\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-4/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260503T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260503T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260115T021516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T030329Z
UID:10000239-1777795200-1777804200@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge.  Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, May 3\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-23/
LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260505T061500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T140000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260115T032313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T182402Z
UID:10000241-1777961700-1778076000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Wilkin County Birding Days
DESCRIPTION:Wilkin County Birding Days\nMay 5\, 6\, 2026 – 6:15 a.m. start\nCraig Mandel — 952-240-7647\nCost: $25 for MRVAC members\, $35 for non-members\nJoin us for a two day visit to Wilkin County. We’ll be some Prairie SNA\, for grassland birds and we will check some wetlands for waterfowl and shorebirds.  We will also spend time in some wooded areas in and around the town of Breckenridge in search of migrant Warblers and other migrating songbirds. Please contact Craig to register for this trip.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/wilkin-county-birding-days/
LOCATION:Baymont by Wyndham Wahpeton\, 1800 Two Ten Drive\, Wahpeton\, ND\, 58075\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260509T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260509T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260115T030225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T030225Z
UID:10000240-1778313600-1778322600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge.  Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 9\, 2026 from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-24/
LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260510T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260510T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260115T015449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T054745Z
UID:10000238-1778400000-1778409000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 10 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 10\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-22/
LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260511T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260511T193000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260311T140155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T142909Z
UID:10000262-1778520600-1778527800@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group (SIG) Outdoor Bird Walk on second Monday evenings
DESCRIPTION:Please join MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group for outdoor photography bird walks. \nWe will meet at 5:30pm.  The location is Old Cedar Avenue Bridge.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-photography-special-interest-group-sig-outdoor-bird-walk-on-second-monday-evenings/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260516T150000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260116T152917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T152917Z
UID:10000246-1778916600-1778943600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Hok-Si-La Warblers
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this traditional field trip that we’ve been taking for over 30 years!  We never know what we will find.  We will meet at Hok-Si-La Park (2500 U.S. Hwy 61\, Lake City\, MN)\, located just north of Lake City.  Bring a lunch if you want to stay for some afternoon birding.  This trip requires moderate effort\, with some walking on trails.  No reservations are required.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/hok-si-la-warblers/
LOCATION:Hok-Si-La Park\, 2500 U.S. Hwy 61\, Lake City\, MN\, 55041\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Steve Weston":MAILTO:sweston2g@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260528T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260528T210000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260226T170955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T171357Z
UID:10000256-1779994800-1780002000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Chapter Meeting\, May 28\, 2026 (In Person and Zoom)
DESCRIPTION:Ferin Davis Anderson\, “Impact of Bison & Burning on Prairie Birds” \nSocial/snacks start at 7pm.  Program starts at 7:30pm.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-chapter-meeting-may-28-2026-in-person-and-zoom/
LOCATION:MVNWR – Bloomington Visitor Center\, 3815 American Blvd. E.\, Bloomington\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260116T030322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T030322Z
UID:10000242-1780128000-1780137000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 30 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and documenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\, which will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include Trumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos and American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks.\nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Saturday\, May 30\, 2026\, from 8-10:30 am. \nLocation: Meet us at upper trailhead at Bass Ponds. \n2501 86th St E\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Bass Ponds: \nRestrooms are located at the lower trailhead\, a short 0.3 mile\, but steep\, downhill walk on paved road from the parking lot. Persons who cannot travel the steep hill from the upper to the lower trailhead on foot may receive a gate code to drive down to the lower lot. Please call (952) 854-5900 for the gate code. There are no water fountains at this location. Trails are natural surface\, mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are two benches along the trail near the fishing piers. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-25/
LOCATION:Bass Ponds\, 2501 86th St. E.\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260531T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260116T034701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T034701Z
UID:10000243-1780214400-1780223400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:May 31 @ 8:00 am – 10:30 am CDT\nFree\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. For these spring walks\, the birds observed will change as the season unfolds. Expect waterfowl on the March and April walks\, followed by sparrows and warblers on the walks in May. We will get to know the birds that migrate through the refuge each spring and those that stay to nest on the refuge. Bring along your binoculars\, favorite field guide and dress appropriately for the weather. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, May 31st from 8:00 am -10:30 am. \nLocation: Rapids Lake Visitor Center – 15865 Rapids Lake Rd\, Carver\, MN 55315 \nRegistration Information: Registration for this program.  To register visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge website.  Select the program you are interested in registering for and you will be taken to the sign up page.  Please indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. This program is capped at 25 participants. \nActivity Level: Easy-active\, we will walk slowly and make frequent stops. \nMeet Us: Meet at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. Enter through the main doors. \nWhat to Bring: Meet outside the Rapids Lake visitor center near the parking lot. Please consider carpooling with others in your party due to limited parking. \nAccessibility: Outdoor restrooms are located at the visitor center; no water is available at this site. This walk takes place on mostly flat ground on a paved trail and natural surface paths. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may not be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. Participants will navigate a short\, paved decline from the parking lot to the river valley. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. \nProgram Leader: This program is led by Volunteer Naturalist Craig Mandel. Craig has been leading bird walks on the refuge for more than two decades. For questions about these walks\, please contact Craig at 952-240-7647. \nThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services\, close captioning\, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-26/
LOCATION:Rapids Lake Visitor Center\, 15865 Rapids Lake Road\, Carver\, MN\, 55315\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260606T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20251215T131411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T135307Z
UID:10000218-1780732800-1780741800@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob - Old Cedar Avenue Bridge Trailhead on June 6\, 2026
DESCRIPTION:We will meet at 8:00am at Old Cedar Avenue Bridge Trailhead. \nPlease dress appropriately for the weather.  Bring water\, binoculars\, and birding apps or guides.  Call or text Bob 651-775-7982 if you have questions.  Inclement weather may affect this event.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob-old-cedar-avenue-bridge-trailhead-on-june-6-2026/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260607T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260607T150000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260116T151933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T152123Z
UID:10000244-1780815600-1780844400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Dakota County Prairie Birds
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/dakota-county-prairie-birds/
LOCATION:Shaar’s Bluff\, 8395 127th Street East\, Hastings\, MN\, 55033\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Steve Weston":MAILTO:sweston2g@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260608T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260608T193000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260311T140511Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T143026Z
UID:10000263-1780939800-1780947000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group (SIG) Outdoor Bird Walk on second Monday evenings
DESCRIPTION:Please join MRVAC Photography Special Interest Group for outdoor photography bird walks. \nWe will meet at 5:30pm.  The location is Old Cedar Avenue Bridge.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-photography-special-interest-group-sig-outdoor-bird-walk-on-second-monday-evenings-2/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260613T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260613T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20251215T131917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T135228Z
UID:10000219-1781337600-1781346600@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob - Rachel Lily Park Preserve on June 13\, 2026
DESCRIPTION:We will meet at 8:00am at Rachel Lily Park Preserve: 680 MN Highway 62\, Mendota Heights.  Park near the red barn. The turn-in is also a church parking lot. \nPlease dress appropriately for the weather.  Bring water\, binoculars\, and birding apps or guides.  Call or text Bob 651-775-7982 if you have questions.  Inclement weather may affect this event.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob-rachel-lily-park-preserve-on-june-13-2026/
LOCATION:Rachel Lilly Preserve\, 680 Highway 62\, Mendota Heights\, MN\, 55118\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260614T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260614T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082511
CREATED:20260309T014938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T014938Z
UID:10000259-1781424000-1781433000@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Watching Trek
DESCRIPTION:Birdwatching Trek: Old Cedar Avenue\nJoin refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a spring bird walk. On these walks\, the focus will be observing and\ndocumenting the species of birds that nest on the refuge. Over the summer we will visit a number of different trails\,\nwhich will offer different species of birds to observe. Some of the species of birds we will be searching for include\nTrumpeter Swans\, Sandhill Cranes\, Willow & Great-crested Flycatchers\, Yellow-throated\, Warbling & Red-eyed Vireos\nand American Redstarts. Birders of all skill levels are welcome on these walks. \nQuestions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900. \nDate and Time: Sunday\, June 7\, 2026\, from 8-10:30am \nLocation: Meet us at the OCA parking lot at Old Cedar Avenue. \n9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN 55425 \nRegistration Information: Registration required through Signup.com\, which is available on the Minnesota Valley NWR’s website. Capped at 25 participants. \nPlease indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk. \nActivity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active\, slow moving\, with plenty of stops along the way. \nWhat to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended\, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them\, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well. \nAccessibility: Accessibility at Old Cedar Avenue: \nRestrooms and water fountains are available seasonally\, from last frost to first frost typically. The restrooms are managed by the City of Bloomington. There is dedicated handicap parking. A portable restroom is available on site. Bluff and Hogback Ridge trails are nature surface. Bluff trail features a wooden boardwalk and has many steep inclines and declines approximately 0.25 miles in\, but connects to the Minnesota Valley State trail 3.4 miles in\, which is a flat and paved path. The pedestrian bridge is a flat concrete path. Depending on seasonal trail conditions\, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches on the trails\, but rest areas are located at the pavilion\, Nature Play Area\, and fishing pier. Trailhead is a
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-watching-trek-5/
LOCATION:Old Cedar Ave Brdge\, 9551 Old Cedar Ave S\, Bloomington\, MN\, 55425\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260617T061500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260618T140000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082512
CREATED:20260309T183713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T183713Z
UID:10000260-1781676900-1781791200@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Brown County Birding Days
DESCRIPTION:Brown County Birding Days\nJune 17\, 18\, 2026 – 6:15 a.m. start\nCraig Mandel — 952-240-7647\nCost: $25 for MRVAC members\, $35 for non-members\nJoin us for a two day visit to Brown County. With a state park\, some county parks and lots of WMAs and some quality woodlands along the Minnesota River.  We’ll have plenty of locations to search for the species of birds that breed in Brown County.  Please contact Craig to register for this trip.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/brown-county-birding-days/
LOCATION:Best Western New Ulm\, 2101 S Broadway Street\, New Ulm\, MN\, 56073\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Craig Mandel":MAILTO:EgretCMan@msn.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260620T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260620T103000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082512
CREATED:20251215T153909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T135152Z
UID:10000220-1781942400-1781951400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Bird Walks with Bob - Fish Creek Natural Area on June 20\, 2026
DESCRIPTION:We will meet at 8:00am at Fish Creek Natural Area\, 1487-1507 Henry Lane in Maplewood. This is at Carver Avenue and Henry Lane immediately west of the 694 underpass. Henry Lane is a dead end. \nPlease dress appropriately for the weather.  Bring water\, binoculars\, and birding apps or guides.  Call or text Bob 651-775-7982 if you have questions.  Inclement weather may affect this event.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/bird-walks-with-bob-fish-creek-natural-area-on-june-20-2026/
LOCATION:Fish Creek Natural Area\, Carver Avenue and Henry Lane\, Maplewood\, MN\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260621T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260621T113000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082512
CREATED:20260116T152328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T152328Z
UID:10000245-1782027000-1782041400@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:Miesville Ravine
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/miesville-ravine-2/
LOCATION:Miesville Ravine Regional Park\, 27970 Orlando Trail\, Cannon Falls\, 55009
ORGANIZER;CN="Steve Weston":MAILTO:sweston2g@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260625T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260625T210000
DTSTAMP:20260413T082512
CREATED:20260226T171702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T171528Z
UID:10000257-1782414000-1782421200@mrvac.org
SUMMARY:MRVAC Chapter Meeting\, June 25\, 2026 (In Person only)
DESCRIPTION:Laura Ericson\, “Cuba” \nSocial/snacks start at 7:00pm.  Program starts at 7:30pm.
URL:https://mrvac.org/event/mrvac-chapter-meeting-june-25-2026-in-person-only/
LOCATION:MVNWR – Bloomington Visitor Center\, 3815 American Blvd. E.\, Bloomington\, 55425\, United States
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR